Which compound,shown with its dipole moment,is expected to exhibit the smallest percent ionic character?
A)HCl,1.11 D
B)HF,1.83 D
C)LiH,6.00 D
D)LiF,6.28 D

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The percent ionic character in a bond is related to the difference in electronegativity between the atoms involved. The greater the difference in electronegativity, the more ionic the bond becomes. In this case, HCl has the smallest dipole moment and hence the smallest electronegativity difference between the atoms. Therefore, it is expected to exhibit the smallest percent ionic character. LiF and LiH have the largest dipole moments, indicating a greater difference in electronegativity and hence the highest percent ionic character. HF has a higher dipole moment than HCl, which suggests a larger electronegativity difference and hence a higher percent ionic character.

Which Compound,shown with Its Dipole Moment,is Expected to Exhibit the Smallest