Fundamentals of Chemical Bonding

Question-and-Answer flashcards reviewing core ideas about ionic bonding, the octet rule, lattice structure, energy changes, and chemical bonds.

What is the primary force responsible for forming an ionic bond?

The electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions (cations and anions).

According to the octet rule, how many electrons do atoms generally seek in their valence shell during bonding?

Eight electrons.

In an ionic crystal lattice, how is the attraction between ions oriented in space?

The attractive force is equal in all directions, creating a three-dimensional lattice.

What happens to the net potential energy of a system when an ionic bond forms?

It decreases because attractive forces exceed repulsive forces.

Which external factor can supply the energy needed to overcome lattice forces and break an ionic bond?

Heat (thermal energy).

What term describes the overall force that holds atoms or ions together in a substance?

A chemical bond.