Bond character comparison: Among the hydrogen halides (HI, HF, HCl, HBr), which molecule exhibits the highest percentage of ionic character? Use the concept of electronegativity difference between hydrogen and the halogen to infer relative ionic character. Choose the correct option.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: HF

Explanation:

Given data

  • Molecules: HI, HF, HCl, HBr.
  • Ionic character increases with electronegativity difference (ΔEN) between bonded atoms.


Concept/Approach
Fluorine is the most electronegative element. Hence, among hydrogen halides, H–F has the largest ΔEN and therefore the greatest ionic character.


Ranking
HF > HCl > HBr > HI (ionic character decreases down the group).


Final Answer
HF

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