What is the difference between ionic and metallic bonding?

Ionic compounds are made up of charged atomic or molecular ions, the attraction between the oppositely charged ions holds the compound together. They don't conduct electricity, are soluble in water.

In metallic compounds, there are positively charged metal ions in a lattice which are surrounded by delocalised electrons. The strength of the bonding is dependent upon the number of electrons delocalised by each atom. Metallic compounds conduct electricity and are not soluble in (but some may react with) water.

BB
Answered by Boglarka B. Chemistry tutor

11445 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the trend in first ionisation energy as you go across Period 3


How do you go about answering titration equations?


Could you explain why water has a high latent heat of vapourisation?


State what is meant by term enthalpy change of neutralisation


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning