Which of the following is an ionic compound? KI NH3 H2S
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The ionic compound among the options is KI (potassium iodide).
Explanation:
Ionic compounds are formed when atoms transfer electrons, leading to the formation of positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions). These oppositely charged ions are held together by strong electrostatic forces of attraction.
- KI (Potassium Iodide):
Potassium (K) is an alkali metal with a charge of +1, and iodine (I) is a halogen with a charge of -1. When potassium reacts with iodine, potassium gives up an electron to form a K⁺ ion, while iodine accepts that electron to form an I⁻ ion. The resulting electrostatic attraction between the K⁺ and I⁻ ions holds them together, making KI an ionic compound. - NH3 (Ammonia):
Ammonia is a molecule made of nitrogen and hydrogen atoms. In NH3, nitrogen shares electrons with hydrogen through covalent bonds. This means that the atoms are not transferring electrons but rather sharing them, which is characteristic of covalent bonding. Therefore, NH3 is not an ionic compound but a covalent one. - H2S (Hydrogen Sulfide):
Hydrogen sulfide is also a covalent compound. Sulfur shares electrons with hydrogen to form H2S, where the bonds are formed by sharing electrons rather than transferring them. Hence, H2S is not ionic.
Thus, KI is the only ionic compound in the list, as it involves the transfer of electrons and the formation of ions held together by electrostatic attraction.
