Which of the bonds below would have the greatest polarity (i.e., highest percent ionic character)
A) Si - P
B) Si - S
C) Si - Se
D) Si - Cl
E) Si - I

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The polarity of a bond is determined by the difference in electronegativity between the two atoms involved. Chlorine (Cl) has a higher electronegativity compared to phosphorus (P), sulfur (S), selenium (Se), and iodine (I). Since silicon (Si) and chlorine (Cl) have a larger difference in electronegativity than the other pairs, the Si-Cl bond would have the greatest polarity, or highest percent ionic character.

Which of the Bonds Below Would Have the Greatest Polarity