AP Chemistryhardmcq1 pt
Which compound shows the greatest covalent character in its bonding?
A.AlCl₃
B.CsF
C.NaCl
D.MgO
Explanation
Core Concept
Covalent character rises as the electronegativity difference falls. Aluminum and chlorine differ by roughly 1.6, well below the gaps of about 2.2 for Na-Cl, about 2.1 for Mg-O, and about 3.2 for Cs-F. A small, highly charged Al³⁺ center also distorts chloride's electron cloud toward itself, sharing density rather than transferring it, which makes AlCl₃ behave partly like a molecular compound.
Correct Answer
AAlCl₃
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