4. Magnesium (a metal) and oxygen (a nonmetal) combine to form magnesium oxide (MgO). The atoms are held together by strong electrostatic attractions between the positive and negative charges of the atoms. Which type of bond holds these atoms together? Ionic Polar covalent Hydrogen Covalent

ionic bond

Explanation:

ionic bond results from electrostatic attraction between opposite charges

Answer: Option (a) is the correct answer.

Explanation:

When there occurs sharing of electrons between two chemically combining atoms then it forms a covalent bond. Whereas is there occurs transfer of electrons from one atom to another then it is known as an ionic bond.

As, atomic number of magnesium is 12 and its electronic distribution is 2, 8, 2.

Hence, in order to become stable in nature it will donate its valence electrons to oxygen atom.

As atomic number of oxygen is 8 and its electronic distribution is 2, 8. So, in order to attain stability it will readily react with magnesium atom.

As a result, MgO compound will be formed due to transfer of electrons from magnesium to oxygen atom. Therefore, an ionic bond will be formed.

Thus, we can conclude that ionic bond holds these atoms of both magnesium and oxygen together.