Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between BeH2 and CaH2 Structure?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between BeH2 and CaH2 Structure?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between BeH2 and CaH2 structures lies in the bonding and geometry of the compounds. Both BeH2 and CaH2 are hydrides containing hydrogen atoms as electron acceptors, but they have distinct structures and properties:

  • BeH2 (Beryllium Hydride):
  • BeH2 has covalent chemical bonds.
  • It exists as a polymeric form with a linear geometry.
  • The single BeH2 molecule has a linear geometry with a 3-centered-2-electron bond.
  • CaH2 (Calcium Hydride):
  • CaH2 is an ionic compound with slightly distorted hexagonal close-packed (hcp) arrangement.
  • The Ca atom donates two electrons to each H atom, resulting in the formation of ionic Ca^(2+)-H^(-) pairs.
  • CaH2 has an angular molecular structure.

In summary, BeH2 is a covalent compound with a polymeric, linear structure, while CaH2 is an ionic compound with an angular, slightly distorted hcp arrangement.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between BeH2 and CaH2 Structure?
  • Comparative Table: BeH2 vs CaH2 Structure

    • Comparative Table: BeH2 vs CaH2 Structure

    The search results provided do not contain information on the specific structures of BeH2 and CaH2. However, I can provide a general comparison between the two based on their chemical properties and behavior.

    Property BeH2 CaH2
    Chemical Formula BeH2 CaH2
    Ionic Character BeH2 is a covalent compound, as beryllium (Be) is not large enough to polarize the bonds enough to make them ionic CaH2 is an ionic compound, as calcium (Ca) has a larger ionic radius and can polarize the bonds to form ions
    Molecular Structure BeH2 has a linear structure with two hydrogen atoms bonded to the beryllium atom CaH2 has a linear structure with two hydrogen atoms bonded to the calcium atom
    Bonding In BeH2, the bonding is due to the overlap of atomic orbitals, resulting in covalent bonds In CaH2, the bonding is due to the electrostatic attraction between the positively charged calcium ion (Ca2+) and the negatively charged hydroxide ions (OH-)
    Stability BeH2 is unstable and may decompose at high temperatures due to the weak bonding CaH2 is generally stable in solid form, but may undergo decomposition reactions in the presence of water or other polar molecules

    Please note that the above table is based on general chemical principles and not on specific structure data.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.