Ionic Bonding

Question 1

What is ionic bonding?

Answer 1

Ionic bonding is the electro-static attraction between 2 or more oppositely charged ions.
This happens between a metal and a non-metal.

Question 2

Do non-metals gain or lose electrons and why?

Answer 2

They gain electrons because it is easier for them to gain a full outer shell this way.

Question 3

Do metals gain or lose electrons and why?

Answer 3

They lose electrons because it is easier for them to gain a full outer shell this way.

Question 4

How are ionic compounds held together?

Answer 4

They are held together by the strong electro-static attraction between positive ions and negative ions.

Question 5

Which charges of ions will form on the different group numbers on the periodic table?

Answer 5

Group 1: +1
Group 2: +2
Group 3: +3

Group 5: -3
Group 6: -2
Group 7: -1

Question 6

What structure do ionic compounds form?

Answer 6

Giant ionic structure

Question 7

Why do ionic compounds have high melting/boiling points?

Answer 7

Because it takes a lot of force (from the heat) to break the strong ionic bonds that hold the atoms together.

Question 8

Why can ionic compounds conduct electricity when molten or dissolved in water?

Answer 8

They can conduct electricity only when molten or dissolved in water because then the charged ions are free to move.