Introduction to the Octet Rule and Ionic Bonding

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the octet rule, ionic bonding, and molecular properties.

What happens when elements lose or gain electrons?

They form ions.

What is a cation?

A cation is formed when an element loses electrons and has a positive charge.

What type of ions do alkali metals typically form?

Alkali metals form +1 ions.

What type of ions do alkaline earth metals typically form?

Alkaline earth metals form +2 ions.

What is the octet rule?

Main-group elements tend to gain or lose electrons to obtain the same number of electrons as the nearest noble gas.

What is a covalent bond?

A covalent bond is formed when two elements share their valence electrons.

What charges do halogens typically form when they become ions?

Halogens typically form ions with a 1- charge.

How do you name cations?

Take the element name and add the term 'ion'.

What is a polyatomic ion?

A polyatomic ion is made up of multiple atoms that are covalently bonded and have an overall net charge.

What describes the structure of ionic compounds?

Ionic compounds are held together by electrostatic forces between cations and anions, forming a continuous 3-D network.

What is electronegativity?

Electronegativity is the ability of a nucleus to attract electrons to itself.

What is a polar covalent bond?

A polar covalent bond occurs when there is a difference in electronegativities between two nuclei, resulting in unequal sharing of electrons.

What is VSEPR theory?

Valence-Shell Electron-Pair Repulsion theory, stating that electron pairs repel each other and assume orientations to minimize repulsions.

What are the properties of molecular compounds?

Molecular compounds consist of individual molecules held together by covalent bonds, and have weaker intermolecular forces than ionic attractions.

What is hydrogen bonding?

A special type of dipole-dipole interaction that occurs between molecules containing H covalently bonded to nitrogen, oxygen, or fluorine.