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5 (a) Germanium chloride exists as simple molecules, GeCl₄ - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 5
5 (a) Germanium chloride exists as simple molecules, GeCl₄. In a molecule of germanium chloride the germanium atom is joined to a chlorine atom by a covalent bond. ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:5 (a) Germanium chloride exists as simple molecules, GeCl₄ - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how an atom of germanium and an atom of chlorine form a covalent bond.
Answer
A covalent bond is formed when an atom of germanium and an atom of chlorine share electrons. Specifically, each atom contributes one electron to the bond, resulting in a pair of shared electrons. This sharing allows both atoms to achieve a more stable electron configuration, resembling that of noble gases.
Step 2
Draw a dot and cross diagram to show the bonding in a molecule of germanium chloride, GeCl₄. Show outer electrons only.
Answer
In the dot and cross diagram for GeCl₄:
- Represent the germanium atom with a central symbol, and use dots to indicate its 4 outer shell electrons.
- Surround the germanium atom with four chlorine atoms, using crosses to represent their outer shell electrons.
- Each chlorine atom shares one of its 7 outer electrons with the germanium atom, forming 4 shared pairs of electrons between the germanium and chlorine atoms.