Question

Which of these elements is unlikely to form covalent bonds: \(\mathrm{S}, \mathrm{H}, \mathrm{K}, \mathrm{Ar}, \mathrm{Si}\) ? Explain your choices.

Short answer

Argon (Ar) is the element that is unlikely to form covalent bonds due to its stable electron configuration as a noble gas, which means it has little tendency to form bonds with other elements.

Step-by-step solution

Review the properties of each element

First, let's briefly discuss the properties of the given elements. 1. Sulfur (S): Sulfur is a nonmetal element in group 16, also known as the chalcogens. Sulfur typically forms covalent bonds, sharing two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. 2. Hydrogen (H): Hydrogen is a nonmetal element with only one electron in its outermost shell. It usually forms covalent bonds because it can share this electron with another element to achieve the stable electron configuration of helium. 3. Potassium (K): Potassium is an alkali metal in group 1. Alkali metals generally form ionic bonds by donating one electron to form a +1 cation and achieve a stable electron configuration. 4. Argon (Ar): Argon is a noble gas in group 18, with a full outer electron shell and a very stable electron configuration. Noble gases generally do not form bonds because they are already stable and do not need to share or transfer electrons. 5. Silicon (Si): Silicon is a metalloid element in group 14, also known as the carbon group. Silicon typically forms covalent bonds, sharing four electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.

Identify the element that is unlikely to form covalent bonds

Looking at the properties of each element, it is clear that potassium (K) and argon (Ar) are the least likely to form covalent bonds: - Potassium (K) is an alkali metal that typically forms ionic bonds by donating one electron to form a +1 cation. - Argon (Ar) is a noble gas with a stable electron configuration, which means it has little tendency to form bonds with other elements. However, potassium does form bonds (albeit ionic ones), while argon generally does not form bonds at all due to its stable electron configuration. Therefore, the correct answer is: Argon (Ar) is the element that is unlikely to form covalent bonds.