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QuestionChemistry

"A covalent bond is likely to be polar when ________. A. one of the atoms sharing electrons is more electronegative than the other atom B. carbon is one of the two atoms sharing electrons C. the two atoms sharing electrons are equally electronegative D. the two atoms sharing electrons are of the same element"
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Step 1:
Let's solve this step by step:

Step 2:
: Understanding Polarity in Covalent Bonds

Polarity in a covalent bond occurs when there is an unequal sharing of electrons between two atoms. This unequal sharing happens due to differences in electronegativity.

Step 3:
: Analyzing Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract electrons in a chemical bond. When two atoms with different electronegativities form a bond, the more electronegative atom will pull the shared electrons closer to itself.

Step 4:
: Evaluating the Options

D. $$\times$$ Atoms of the same element have identical electronegativity, creating a non-polar bond.

Step 5:
: Reasoning

The key to a polar covalent bond is an unequal distribution of electron density, which occurs when atoms have different electronegativities.

Final Answer

A covalent bond is likely to be polar when one of the atoms sharing electrons is more electronegative than the other atom.