How does electronegativity affect the type of bond formed between two atoms?

Electronegativity is the ability of an atom to attract shared electrons in a chemical bond. The difference in electronegativity between two atoms determines the type of bond formed:

  • If the difference in electronegativity is small or zero (typically less than 0.5), a non-polar covalent bond is formed, as the electrons are shared equally.

  • If the difference is moderate (between 0.5 and 1.7), a polar covalent bond is formed, where the electrons are shared unequally.

  • If the difference is large (greater than 1.7), an ionic bond is formed, where one atom donates electrons and the other accepts them.

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