Ionic Compounds and Their Properties

The video tutorial explains how to determine if K3N (potassium nitride) is ionic or covalent. It begins by examining the periodic table to identify potassium as a metal and nitrogen as a non-metal, suggesting an ionic compound. The video then calculates the electronegativity difference between potassium (0.8) and nitrogen (3.0), confirming the ionic nature due to a difference greater than 2. It further explains the ionic charges, with potassium having a 1+ charge and nitrogen forming a nitride ion with a 3- charge, necessitating three potassium ions to balance the charge. The conclusion reaffirms that K3N is ionic.

What is the primary factor in determining if a compound is ionic or covalent?

• The color of the compound

• The temperature at which the compound melts

• The position of elements in the periodic table

• The taste of the compound

Which elements are typically involved in forming ionic compounds?

• A noble gas and a metal

• A metal and a non-metal

• Two non-metals

• Two metals

What is the electronegativity difference between potassium and nitrogen?

• Exactly 2

• Less than 1

• Between 1 and 2

• Greater than 2

Why is K3N considered an ionic compound?

• Because it is made of two metals

• Because the electronegativity difference is less than 1

• Because it involves a metal and a non-metal with a significant electronegativity difference

• Because it is a gas at room temperature

What is the ionic charge of potassium in K3N?

• 2+

• 1+

• 3+

• 0

How many potassium ions are needed to balance one nitride ion in K3N?

• One

• Four

• Two

• Three