Question

Which of the following is the best definition of a diatomic molecule?


A. molecule made from the covalent bond of 2 atoms of the same type
B. ionic compound with a net charge of 2
C. cation with 2 positive charges
D. compound made of 2 different elements

Answer 1

diatomic molecules are molecules composed of only two atoms, of either the same or different chemical elements. The prefix di-is of Greek origin, meaning "two". If a diatomic molecule consists of two atoms of the same element such as hydrogen (H2) or oxygen (O2), then it is said to be homonuclear.

Answer 2

The correct option is A.

Diatomic molecules are molecules that are made up of only two atoms, the atoms can be of the same element or different elements. When the atoms are of the same element, the diatomic molecule is described as homonuclear; when the atoms are of different elements, the molecule is described as heteronuclear. The type of chemical bond that exist in diatomic molecule is covalent bond.