If an element forms an acidic oxide, is it more likely to form an ionic or covalent hydride?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the nature of acidic oxides. Acidic oxides are typically formed by nonmetals and react with water to form acids. They are often covalent in nature.
2. Step 2: Recall the general properties of elements that form covalent compounds. Nonmetals, which form acidic oxides, tend to share electrons and form covalent bonds.
3. Step 3: Consider the types of hydrides. Hydrides can be ionic or covalent. Ionic hydrides are usually formed by metals, while covalent hydrides are formed by nonmetals.
4. Step 4: Relate the formation of acidic oxides to the type of hydride. Since elements that form acidic oxides are typically nonmetals, they are more likely to form covalent hydrides.
5. Step 5: Conclude that an element forming an acidic oxide is more likely to form a covalent hydride due to its nonmetallic character and tendency to share electrons.