Question

Which set of atoms will form an ionic compound?

A) one calcium atom with an oxygen atom
Eliminate
B) two hydrogen atoms with one oxygen atom
C) one oxygen atom with another oxygen atom
D) two phosphorous atoms with five oxygen atoms

Answer 1

A) one calcium atom with an oxygen atom

Step-by-step explanation:

An ionic compound is formed when one atom donates one or more electrons to one or more atoms of another element. Calcium has two valence electrons, which are donated to an atom of oxygen. So, an ionic compound is formed in the reaction involving one calcium atom with an oxygen atom.

Answer 2

A) one calcium atom with an oxygen atom

Step-by-step explanation:

An ionic compound is formed as result of electrovalent bonding between two atoms.

In this bond type, a more electronegative atom combines with a less electronegative one. It is usually between metals and non-metals. In ionic bonds, there is transfer of electrons between two atoms.

Calcium is a metal and oxygen is a non-metal. Calcium will readily lose its valence electron to achieve its desired octet configuration. Oxygen will gain the two electrons and have a configuration similar to that of Argon.