Tungsten carbide, with the chemical formula WC, is a compound that consists of equal parts of tungsten and carbon atoms. It is renowned for its exceptional hardness, high density, and resistance to corrosion, making it a crucial material in various industrial applications, including cutting tools, abrasives, and even jewelry. The question of whether tungsten carbide is covalent involves understanding its atomic structure and the nature of the bonds between its constituent atoms.
Tungsten carbide (WC) is a compound of tungsten and carbon renowned for its extraordinary hardness, high melting point, and diverse industrial applications. While its physical properties are well-documented, the nature of its chemical bonding—ionic or covalent—remains a topic of scientific inquiry. This article explores the structure, bonding, properties, applications, and implications of tungsten carbide while addressing its ionic or covalent character.