Question

Which of the following statements is true concerning molecular compounds?

A. The are composed entirely of nonmetals.
B. The are composed of only one element.
C. They are composed of ions.
D. The are formed from a metallic element and a nonmetallic element.

Answer 1

The true statement about molecular compounds is that they are composed entirely of nonmetals. Molecular compounds are formed by nonmetal atoms sharing electrons to create discrete molecules, differing from ionic compounds which are formed by electron transfer between metals and nonmetals.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement concerning molecular compounds is: A. They are composed entirely of nonmetals. Molecular compounds, also known as covalent compounds, are generally formed from the bonding of nonmetal atoms. These atoms share electrons, creating discrete molecules like water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂), which are different from ionic compounds such as sodium chloride (NaCl). Ionic compounds result from the transfer of electrons between metal and nonmetal atoms, leading to the formation of cations and anions that are electrostatically attracted to each other. By contrast, molecular compounds do not contain ions but consist of atoms bonded tightly together in molecules, forming substances that often exist as gases, low-boiling liquids, and low-melting solids under normal conditions.