Introduction to Molecules and Ionic Compounds

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the formation of molecules, focusing on ionic compounds and the relationships between metals and nonmetals.

Molecule

A combination of two or more atoms that are bound together, where the atoms are no longer independent.

Sodium Chloride

An example of a molecule formed from sodium (a metal) and chlorine (a nonmetal), characterized as an ionic compound.

Valence Electrons

Electrons in the outer shell of an atom that determine its chemical properties and reactivity.

Ionic Compound

A molecule formed when a metal atom loses electrons to a nonmetal atom, resulting in the formation of charged ions that attract each other.

Lewis Dot Structure

A diagram that shows the bonding between atoms of a molecule and the lone pairs of electrons that may exist.

Crossover Method

A technique used to determine the formula of an ionic compound by crossing the charges of the atoms involved.

Magnesium Chloride

An ionic compound formed from magnesium and chlorine, requiring two chlorine atoms for each magnesium atom.

Positive Ion

An atom that has lost one or more electrons, resulting in a net positive charge.

Negative Ion

An atom that has gained one or more electrons, resulting in a net negative charge.

Periodic Table

A tabular arrangement of chemical elements, organized by atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties.