Explain the difference between covalent and ionic bonding.

In covalent bonding 2 or more atoms share electron in their outter shells to give them all full outer shells. In ionic bonding one atom donates one or more electons to another atom, the donating atom becomes a positive ion whereas the recieving atom becomes a negative ion. The ions are then held together by the opposing electrostatic forces.

RS
Answered by Rachel S. Chemistry tutor

2584 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the structure of an atom and an ion.


How does hot water in lakes make fish die


In terms of electrons, explain the bonding in sodium chloride


How does fractional distillation work?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning