Is Hydrogen Chloride (HCl) Ionic or Covalent?
Is Hydrogen Chloride (HCl) ionic or covalent?
HCl has a polar covalent bond. Chlorine pulls electrons closer, creating partial charges. In water, it completely dissociates into H+ and Cl-.
| Formula | HCl |
| Name | Hydrogen Chloride |
| Bond Type | Polar Covalent |
| EN Values | H: 2.2, Cl: 3.16 |
| EN Difference | 0.96 |
| Electron Behavior | Unequal sharing |
| Melting Point | -114 C (low) |
| Conductivity | Conducts in aqueous solution (strong acid) |
| Solubility | Very soluble in water |
| Key Concept | Polar covalent bond that fully dissociates in water |
Overview
Hydrogen chloride is a diatomic molecule with a polar covalent bond. It dissolves in water to form hydrochloric acid.
Electronegativity Analysis
H has EN 2.20, Cl has 3.16. The difference of 0.96 is clearly polar covalent.
Electron Behavior
Electrons are shared unequally, pulled toward chlorine. Despite being covalent in the gas phase, HCl fully ionizes in water.
Physical Properties
HCl is a gas at room temperature. Dissolved in water, it is a strong acid that conducts electricity well.
See electronegativity values, partial charges, and bond character on interactive 3D molecules.
Visualize Hydrogen Chloride's Bonding in 3DRelated Topics
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Interactive Periodic Table
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