ABLEIonic Bonding
What is Ionic Bonding?
Ionic bonding involves the transfer of electrons from a metal atom to a non-metal atom. The metal loses electrons to form a positive ion (cation), and the non-metal gains electrons to form a negative ion (anion). The oppositely charged ions are held together by strong electrostatic attraction.
Properties of Ionic Compounds
Ionic compounds have high melting and boiling points (strong ionic bonds require lots of energy to break). They conduct electricity when molten or dissolved in water (ions are free to move) but not when solid (ions are fixed in a lattice).
Key Points
- Ionic bonds form between metals and non-metals
- Electrons are transferred (not shared)
- High melting points, conduct when molten/dissolved
Exam Tips
- Draw dot-and-cross diagrams showing electron transfer clearly
- When explaining conductivity, mention "ions free to move"