Chemistry
Percent Ionic Character Calculator
Estimate how ionic a bond is from the electronegativity difference between the two atoms.
Your inputs
Change any value to update the result instantly.
Ionic character
71.2 %
Covalent character
28.8 %
Interpretation
More ionic than covalent
Pauling's empirical relation. It is a guide to bond character, not a measured property.
What this calculator does
Applies Pauling's empirical relation to estimate the ionic character of a bond from the electronegativity difference.
What your result means
The percentage of ionic character; the remainder is covalent character.
Formula and working
% ionic = 100 × [1 − exp(−(Δχ ÷ 2)²)]
- 1
Collect the inputs
Electronegativity difference (Δχ) = 2.23
- 2
Apply the formula
% ionic = 100 × [1 − exp(−(Δχ ÷ 2)²)]
- 3
Result
Ionic character = 71.2 %
Frequently asked questions
Symbols and assumptions
- Δχ
- Electronegativity difference
- % ionic
- 100 × [1 − exp(−(Δχ ÷ 2)²)]
- • Δχ is measured on the Pauling scale.
Sources and review
Reviewed 2026-09-22 · Next review 2027-09-22
- • An empirical correlation only. Measured dipole moments give the experimental ionic character.
Important limitation
This is an educational estimate based only on the values and formula shown. Verify current rates, rules, units, and professional standards before relying on the result. It is not personalized financial or investment advice.
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