MHT CET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution

Step-by-step solution

Quaternary ammonium salts have the general formula R_4N^+ X^-. The bonds present within the alkyl or aryl groups (R) and three of the nitrogen-carbon bonds are covalent. The fourth nitrogen-carbon bond is formed by the donation of the lone pair of electrons from the nitrogen atom to an electron-deficient carbon atom, which is a co-ordinate (dative) bond. The electrostatic force of attraction between the complex quaternary ammonium cation (R_4N^+) and the counter anion (X^-) constitutes an ionic bond. Thus, quaternary ammonium salts contain covalent, co-ordinate, and ionic bonds. Answer: covalent, co-ordinate and ionic