Multiple choice

Which of the following largely forms covalent compounds?

  1. Mg

  2. Be

  3. Cs

  4. Na
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Beryllium (Be) predominantly forms covalent compounds due to its very small atomic size and high ionization energy, which gives it high polarizing power (Fajan's rules). This allows Be to distort electron clouds of anions and form electron-sharing bonds rather than pure ionic bonds. Mg, Cs, and Na typically form ionic compounds.

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