Final answer:
Among the given options, the pair of atoms that would experience an ionic bond is magnesium (Mg) and fluorine (F). This is because there is a significant electronegativity difference between these two elements, with Mg being a metal and F being a highly electronegative non-metal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks which of the given pairs of atoms would most likely form an ionic bond. An ionic bond occurs when there is a large difference in electronegativity between two atoms, typically between a metal and a non-metal. The metal loses one or more electrons to become a cation with a positive charge, while the non-metal gains those electrons to become an anion with a negative charge.
Looking at the options:
- N and H: This pair would form a polar covalent bond, as the difference in EN is not large enough for the complete transfer of electrons.
- S and F: A polar covalent bond is more likely here due to intermediate EN difference.
- H and O: This pair forms a polar covalent bond, as in water (H2O).
- Mg and F: Magnesium (Mg) is a metal with a low electronegativity, and fluorine (F) is a non-metal with a very high electronegativity. This pair would experience an ionic bond, with the magnesium atom likely losing two electrons to form Mg²⁺ and fluorine gaining an electron to form F⁻. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Mg and F.