A period 2 nonmetal, X, forms the molecular compound NX₃. Which of the following are also correct formulas for molecular compounds involving X?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Molecular compounds involving X typically form by sharing electrons in covalent bonds with other nonmetals. Therefore, any combination of nonmetals that can form covalent bonds with X could be a valid formula for a molecular compound. A) HX: This would not typically be a valid molecular formula for X, as hydrogen is a metalloid that tends to form cations, rather than share electrons in covalent bonds. B) OX₂: Oxygen is another nonmetal that can form covalent bonds with X, so this could be a valid formula. However, the subscripts in the formula suggest an incorrect ratio of atoms. C) C₂X: Carbon is also a nonmetal that can form covalent bonds with X, so this could be a valid formula. However, like (B), the subscripts suggest an incorrect ratio of atoms. D) More than one correct response: As mentioned, any combination of nonmetals that can form covalent bonds with X could be a valid formula for a molecular compound. Thus, there are likely multiple correct responses. E) No correct response: As explained, (A) and (B) are unlikely to be valid formulas for molecular compounds involving X, but (C) and (D) are possibilities. Therefore, there is at least one correct response, so (E) is not the correct answer.

A Period 2 Nonmetal, X, Forms the Molecular Compound NX3

A Period 2 Nonmetal, X, Forms the Molecular Compound NX₃