Ionic bonding

What is ionic bonding

Ionic bonding is the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions

What is a cation

A positively charged ion such as metal ions and ammonium ions

What is anion

A negatively charged ion such as non-metal ions and polyatomic ions

What is the structure of ionic compounds

An ionic lattice, positive and negative ions attract, there are strong ionic bonds. There are multiple strong ionic bonds in all directions.

Why are ionic compounds solid at RTP

As at RTP there is insufficient energy to overcome the many strong electrostatic forces of attraction in the giant ionic lattice. High temperatures a required to overcome these forces so they have high melting and boiling points.

Why are ionic compounds soluble

They dissolve in polar solvents such as water, as the ionic lattice is broken down. Water molecules attract and surround the ions in the lattice so it breaks down.

Note:

A compound made of ions with large charges, ionic attraction may be too strong for water to be able to break down lattice structure so will not be very soluble.

Why do ionic compounds not conduct electricity in a solid state

In a solid state ions are in a fixed position but once molten or dissolved ionic lattice breaks down and the ions are now free to move as mobile charge carriers