Ionic vs Covalent Bonds

Front

What is an ionic bond?

Back

An ionic bond is a type of chemical bond that occurs when one atom transfers electrons to another atom, resulting in the formation of charged ions that attract each other.

Front

What is a covalent bond?

Back

A covalent bond is a type of chemical bond where two atoms share one or more pairs of electrons.

Front

Give an example of a covalent compound.

Back

Water (H2O) is an example of a covalent compound.

Front

Give an example of an ionic compound.

Back

Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) is an example of an ionic compound.

Front

What types of elements typically form ionic bonds?

Back

Ionic bonds usually form between metals and nonmetals.

Front

What types of elements typically form covalent bonds?

Back

Covalent bonds typically form between nonmetals.

Front

What is the significance of electronegativity in bond formation?

Back

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract electrons. In ionic bonds, there is a large difference in electronegativity between the two atoms, while in covalent bonds, the difference is small.

Front

What is a polar covalent bond?

Back

A polar covalent bond is a type of covalent bond where the electrons are shared unequally between the two atoms, resulting in a molecule with a slight charge.

Front

What is a nonpolar covalent bond?

Back

A nonpolar covalent bond is a type of covalent bond where the electrons are shared equally between the two atoms.

Front

How does the structure of water relate to its properties?

Back

The polar covalent bonds in water lead to hydrogen bonding, which gives water its unique properties like high surface tension and solvent capabilities.