Ionic Bonding

Ionic bonding - between metals and nonmetals

An ionic bond - the electrostatic force of attraction between oppositely charged ions

Structure of an ionic bond

• Lattice structure of positive and negative ions
• Ions are held together by electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions

Example of an ionic compound is Sodium Chloride (salt):

• Very high melting/boiling point - Strong electrostatic forces between ions require lots of energy to overcome
• Solid - is not a conductor as ions are in a fixed position
• Molten or in an aqueous solution - is a conductor as ions are free to move