Ionic and Molecular Compounds

These flashcards cover key definitions and concepts related to ionic and molecular compounds, their properties, bonding types, and relevant chemistry terms.

Ionic Bond

A bond that occurs when the valence electrons of atoms of a metal are transferred to atoms of a nonmetal.

Covalent Bond

A bond formed when atoms of nonmetals share valence electrons.

Positive Ion

An ion that forms when an atom loses valence electrons, resulting in a net positive charge.

Negative Ion

An ion that forms when a nonmetal gains one or more valence electrons, resulting in a net negative charge.

Valence Electrons

Electrons in the outermost shell of an atom that are involved in chemical bonding.

Polyatomic Ion

An ion composed of two or more atoms bonded together, that carries a charge.

Electronegativity

The measure of the ability of an atom in a chemical compound to attract electrons.

Dipole

The separation of charges in a polar bond where one end is partially positive and the other is partially negative.

Lewis Structure

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

Molecular Compound

A compound formed when two or more nonmetals share electrons.