Is KBr a covalent or ionic compound
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
KBr (potassium bromide) is an ionic compound. It forms when potassium (K), a metal, reacts with bromine (Br), a non-metal. This ionic bonding occurs due to the transfer of electrons from the potassium atom to the bromine atom.
Potassium, being in group 1 of the periodic table, has one electron in its outermost shell. This electron is easily lost, resulting in a positively charged potassium ion (K⁺). On the other hand, bromine, located in group 17, has seven electrons in its outer shell and needs one more electron to achieve a stable octet. When potassium loses its electron, bromine gains it, resulting in a negatively charged bromide ion (Br⁻).
The oppositely charged ions, K⁺ and Br⁻, are held together by a strong electrostatic force of attraction, forming a stable ionic bond. The arrangement of these ions in KBr forms a crystalline lattice structure, which is characteristic of ionic compounds. This lattice arrangement maximizes the attraction between positive and negative ions while minimizing repulsion, providing the compound with high melting and boiling points.
Ionic compounds, like KBr, also tend to be soluble in water and conduct electricity when dissolved, as the ions are free to move in the solution. However, in their solid form, ionic compounds like KBr do not conduct electricity because the ions are fixed in place within the crystal lattice.
In summary, KBr is ionic because it forms through the complete transfer of an electron from potassium to bromine, resulting in the formation of oppositely charged ions that are held together by strong electrostatic forces.
