Final answer:
Electronegativity values inform us about the polarity and type of bond between two atoms. A small difference in electronegativity usually results in a nonpolar covalent bond, while a large difference leads to an ionic bond. There are general thresholds for these differences, but exceptions do exist.
Step-by-step explanation:
Electronegativity values are crucial in predicting the type of bond formed between two elements. When two atoms bond, the difference in electronegativity (AEN) aids in determining the polarity and type of bond - whether it is ionic, polar covalent, or nonpolar covalent. Electronegativity is defined as the ability of an atom in a molecule to attract shared electrons to itself.
If the AEN approaches zero, this implies that electrons are shared fairly equally, and the bond formed is nonpolar covalent. As the AEN increases, electrons are less evenly shared and the bond becomes polar covalent, with the more electronegative atom acquiring a partial negative charge. A very large AEN typically indicates that the more electronegative atom has taken the electrons away from the other atom completely, resulting in an ionic bond. This scenario often occurs when metals bond with nonmetals.
There are general guidelines for determining the bond type based on AEN. A difference of more than 1.8 often results in an ionic bond, whereas a difference of less than 0.5 usually signifies a nonpolar covalent bond. It is essential to note that these values are approximations, and exceptions exist.