Which of the following compounds contains a coordinate covalent bond (dative bond) in its molecular structure?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The ammonium ion contains a coordinate covalent bond formed when a hydrogen ion donates no electrons while accepting a lone pair from the nitrogen atom of an ammonia molecule to form a stable bond. Regular covalent compounds like water, methane, and carbon dioxide involve mutual sharing of electron pairs between bonded atoms without dative interactions. Ammonium salts are commonly tested in qualitative inorganic analysis for nitrogenous compounds.