1f Ionic bonding Flashcards
What is an ionic bond?
Ionic bond is the electrostatic force of attraction between a positively charged metal ion and a negatively charged non-metal ion.
How are ions formed?
- Ions are formed when they gain or lose an electron.
- Group 1 easily loses an electron to become a 1+ ion
- Group 2 easily loses two electrons to become a 2+ ion
- Losing and gaining an electron requires energy
- When you gain an electron it becomes negatively charged
- When you lose an electron it becomes positively charged
Why can’t ionic compounds conduct electricity as a solid?
They cannot conduct electricity when solid because their ions are held in fixed positions and cannot move. They can only vibrate. They do not have free-floating ions when they’re a solid.
Why can ionic compounds conduct electricity when melted or dissolved in water?
Because of the presence of free-floating ions. Electrical conductivity is caused by charged particles when they’re moving. When they become free-floating ions the lattice is broken down. The ions are able to move and can conduct electricity
Why do ionic compounds have a high melting point?
Because a lot of energy is required to overcome the strong electrostatic attractions. And also because in the giant ionic structure called lattice there are millions of strong bonds holding them together making them difficult to melt.
Why are ionic compounds soluble in water?
When in water the electrostatic force between the ionic compounds decreases which makes them soluble in water. They form bonds with the water molecules. The water causes the compounds to dissociate into compound ions, which then are stabilized in water.
