Ionic Bonding

What is an ionic bond?

An ionic bond is a chemical bond formed between two oppositely charged ions, typically a metal and a nonmetal.

How do metals and nonmetals behave in ionic bonding?

Metals lose electrons to become cations (positively charged), and nonmetals gain electrons to become anions (negatively charged).

What type of structure do ionic compounds form?

They form a crystal lattice structure.

What are the properties of ionic compounds?

High melting and boiling points, brittle, and conduct electricity when molten or dissolved in water.

What is a formula unit?

The lowest whole-number ratio of ions in an ionic compound.

Why do ionic compounds conduct electricity in molten or aqueous states?

Because the ions are free to move and carry charge.

What is lattice energy?

The energy released when one mole of an ionic compound is formed from its gaseous ions.

What factors affect lattice energy?

The charges of the ions and the distance between them (ionic radii).

What is the octet rule in the context of ionic bonding?

Atoms tend to gain or lose electrons to achieve a full outer shell of 8 electrons.

What are multivalent elements?

Elements (typically transition metals) that can form more than one type of positive charge.