Describe how ionic bonds are formed, using sodium chloride as an example.
Understand the Problem
The question asks for a description of how ionic bonds form, specifically using sodium chloride (NaCl) as an example to illustrate the process. This involves explaining the transfer of electrons between atoms and the resulting electrostatic attraction.
Answer
Ionic bonds formed through electron transfer. Sodium (Na) donates an electron to chlorine (Cl), forming Na+ and Cl- ions. The attraction between these ions creates NaCl.
Ionic bonds are formed through the transfer of electrons between atoms. In the case of sodium chloride (NaCl), a sodium atom donates an electron to a chlorine atom. This creates a positively charged sodium ion (Na+) and a negatively charged chloride ion (Cl-). The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions results in the formation of an ionic bond, creating NaCl.
Answer for screen readers
Ionic bonds are formed through the transfer of electrons between atoms. In the case of sodium chloride (NaCl), a sodium atom donates an electron to a chlorine atom. This creates a positively charged sodium ion (Na+) and a negatively charged chloride ion (Cl-). The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions results in the formation of an ionic bond, creating NaCl.
More Information
Ionic compounds often form crystal lattices due to the regular arrangement of ions, leading to characteristic properties like high melting points and brittleness.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking ionic bonds involve sharing electrons like covalent bonds. Ionic bonds are about transferring electrons.
Sources
- 4.3: Sodium Chloride and Ionic Bonds - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
- ionic bond: sodium chloride, or table salt - Students - Britannica Kids - kids.britannica.com
- What is the ionic bond formation sodium chloride? - Socratic - socratic.org
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
