HESI A4
HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test
1. When elements with low electronegativity (almost empty outer shells) react with elements with high electronegativity (mostly full outer shells), they tend to transfer electrons from the low electronegative element to the high electronegative element. This transfer results in the formation of what type of bonds?
- A. Hydrogen
- B. Covalent
- C. Ionic
- D. Nuclear
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ionic. When elements with low electronegativity (almost empty outer shells) react with elements with high electronegativity (mostly full outer shells), they tend to transfer electrons from the low electronegative element to the high electronegative element. This transfer results in the formation of ionic bonds, where one element becomes positively charged (cation) and the other element becomes negatively charged (anion). Ionic bonds are formed through the attraction between these opposite charges, leading to a strong bond between the two elements. Choice A, Hydrogen, is incorrect because hydrogen is not involved in the described electron transfer process to form ionic bonds. Choice B, Covalent, is incorrect because covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms, not the transfer of electrons as seen in the formation of ionic bonds. Choice D, Nuclear, is incorrect as nuclear bonds are not a recognized type of chemical bond. Therefore, the most appropriate answer is C: Ionic bonds.