Ionic bond
The strong attraction between a positive ion and a negative ion. It forms when a metal gives electrons to a non-metal.
Last updated
Analogy
It is like magnets of opposite poles sticking together.
Example
Na (2,8,1) loses 1 electronCl (2,8,7) gains 1 electronBoth now have full outer shells
In practice
Sodium gives an electron to chlorine, and the two ions stick to make sodium chloride, table salt.
Practice
Flashcards
- What type of bond forms between a metal and a non-metal?An ionic bond.
Interview questions
- Explain why sodium chloride has a high melting point.
- Giant ionic lattice
- Strong electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions
- Many bonds to break
- A lot of energy needed
Questions people ask
Why is an ionic compound neutral overall?
The positive and negative charges balance out. Sodium chloride has one Na+ for each Cl-. Magnesium chloride has one Mg2+ for two Cl-, because the 2+ charge needs two 1- charges. That is why the formula is MgCl2 and not MgCl.
Do ionic compounds dissolve in water?
Many do. Water molecules pull ions out of the lattice and surround them, so the solid breaks up. The solution can then conduct electricity because the ions can move. Not all ionic compounds dissolve, though. Calcium carbonate, found in chalk and limestone, is insoluble.