Question

What is a coordinate covalent bond?

Short answer

A coordinate covalent bond is a type of covalent bond where both electrons come from the same atom.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of Coordinate Covalent Bond

Understand that a coordinate covalent bond, also known as a dative covalent bond, is a type of covalent bond in which both electrons shared in the bond come from the same atom.

Characteristics of a Coordinate Covalent Bond

Recognize that in a typical covalent bond, each atom contributes one electron to the bond. However, in a coordinate covalent bond, one atom donates both of the electrons forming the bond.

Examples and Applications

Identify examples such as the formation of ammonium ion (NH_4^+) where a lone pair from the nitrogen atom is donated to form a bond with a hydrogen ion (H^+), resulting in a coordinate covalent bond.

Key concepts

Dative Covalent Bond

When exploring the world of chemical bonds, you'll come across the special type known as a dative covalent bond. Imagine a situation where you and a friend are hanging out, and you both want to share a snack. Instead of each of you bringing a snack to the table, you provide both and share it equally with your friend. Similarly, in a dative covalent bond, one atom generously provides both electrons needed for the shared pair, rather than each atom contributing one electron as in typical covalent bonding.

In this selfless act of chemical kindness, the atom donating its lone pair of electrons is known as the donor, while the atom that accepts these electrons is referred to as the acceptor. It's a kind of bond that's often formed when ions or molecules with lone pairs react with ions or molecules that are electron-deficient. A classic example of this bond is when ammonia, NH₃, donates a lone pair to a hydrogen ion, H⁺, forming the well-known ammonium ion, NH₄⁺.

Covalent Bonding

Diving deeper into covalent bonding, this type of bond forms when two atoms come close enough to share electrons, allowing them to achieve a more stable electronic configuration. Think of it as a dance between atoms where each brings an electron to the dance floor, and they move together in harmony.

Covalent bonds are fundamental to the structures of molecules and dictate the properties and behaviors of various substances. They come in two 'flavors': polar and nonpolar. Polar covalent bonds occur when atoms with different electronegativities get together, resulting in an unequal share of the electron pair. Nonpolar covalent bonds, on the other hand, involve atoms with similar electronegativities sharing electron pairs equally. The strength of covalent bonds can heavily influence a molecule's boiling and melting points, solubility, and reactivity.

Formation of Ammonium Ion

The ammonium ion, NH₄⁺, is the poster child for showcasing a dative covalent bond in action. As we delve into its formation, we find nitrogen, an atom from the ammonia molecule, NH₃, lending a helping hand—or more accurately, a pair of electrons—to a hydrogen ion, which is just a proton in need of an electron pair. This generous gesture results in the formation of NH₄⁺.

It's an elegant exchange in chemical currency, where the lone pair from the nitrogen atom fills the electron requirement of the proton. The result is a stable, positively charged ion that is a cornerstone in teaching the concept of coordinate covalent bonding. Not only that, but the ammonium ion also plays a significant role in biological systems and is a key player in the nitrogen cycle, affecting many forms of life on Earth.