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.

Given data

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

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

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

Final AnswerHF