Question

Elements X and Y have the following configurations:
X (2, 8, 7),    Y (2, 8, 8, 2)
Answer the following questions:
(a) What will be the nature of bond between X and Y?
(b) Draw the diagram to show the bond formation between X and Y?
(c) Sate three main properties of this compound.

Answer 1

Electronic Configuration of X shows that X is a metal.
Electronic Configuration of Y shows that y is a non metal.
a) Since Y is a metal and thus electropositive :
                          Y →  Y⁺ + 2e^-
B) Since X is a non metal and thus electro-negative :
                          X + 1e^- → X^-
Hence two X atoms can combine with one Y atom to form YX₂ molecule and since the formation of YX₂ involves complete transfer of electrons between them so the bond between them is ionic.

(b)

(c) The three main properties of this compound are:

• It is an ionic compound.
• It is soluble in water but insoluble in organic solvents.
• It is a good conductor of electricity in the molten state and in aqueous solution.