What is the electronegativity difference in KBr?

K has an electronegativity of 0.82 and Br has an electronegativity of 2.96, giving an EN difference of 2.14. This classifies the bond as ionic.

Is Potassium Bromide (KBr) Ionic or Covalent?

Is Potassium Bromide (KBr) ionic or covalent?

KBr is an ionic compound. Potassium (a very electropositive metal) transfers its valence electron to bromine, forming K+ and Br- ions.

Formula	KBr
Name	Potassium Bromide
Bond Type	Ionic
EN Values	K: 0.82, Br: 2.96
EN Difference	2.14
Electron Behavior	Transfer
Melting Point	734 C (high)
Conductivity	Conducts when dissolved or molten
Solubility	Soluble in water
Key Concept	Typical alkali metal + halogen ionic compound

Potassium bromide is an ionic salt formed between an alkali metal (K) and a halogen (Br).

K has EN 0.82, Br has 2.96. The difference of 2.14 is well into the ionic range.

Potassium transfers its single valence electron to bromine, forming K+ and Br- ions.

KBr has a high melting point (734 C), conducts electricity in solution, and is soluble in water.

See electronegativity values, partial charges, and bond character on interactive 3D molecules.