Bonding and Structure: Ionic Bonding & Ionic Compounds

Question 1

What is ionic bonding?

Answer 1

• the electrostatic attraction between positive and negative ions
• its a relatively strong attraction

Question 2

How are ionic compounds held together?

Answer 2

• they are held together in a giant lattice
• it’s a regular structure that extends in all directions in a substance
• electrostatic attraction between positive and negative ions hold the structure together

Question 3

What properties do ionic compounds have?

Answer 3

• high melting and boiling points
• cannot conduct electricity when solid
• can conduct electricity when molten or dissolved in water

Question 4

Why do ionic compound have high melting and boiling points?

Answer 4

In ionic compounds there are strong electrostatic forces between oppositely charged compounds which require a lot of energy to overcome.

Question 5

Why can ionic compounds only conduct electricity when molten or aqueous?

Answer 5

They have free moving ions. These ions can carry electrical charge through the structure.

Question 6

What will be formed when Mg²⁺ reacts with Cl^-?

Answer 6

MgCl₂
(use the crossover method)

Question 7

What is an ionic bond between?

Answer 7

metal and a non-metal ion