Describe the three main types of bonding?

  1. Ionic bonding - occurs between a metal an a none metal. Electrons are transferred between two atoms to form ions - atoms with either a positive or negative charge. Ionic bonding occurs because of the strong electrostatic attraction between the oppositely charged ions. The ions form a lattice, an ionic compound. Ionic compound conduct electricity when molten or dissolved, have high melting points and are soluble. E.g. NaCl2) Covalent bonding - occurs between two none metals. Electron pair sharing. The covalent bond is very strong but most covalent compounds exist as compounds made up of lots of individual molecules. The atoms within the molecules are held together by the strong covalent bonds, the molecules are held together by weak intermolecular forces. This results in them having low boiling points and being electrical insulators. E.g. H2O. 3) Metallic bonding - occurs between two metals. The valence electrons of a metal are not localised around the atom but exist as a cloud of electrons around all the ion centres. The metal is held together by strong forces of attraction between the electron cloud and the ion centres. Metals have good thermal and electrical conductivity as a result of the delocalised electrons.
KM
Answered by Katherine M. Chemistry tutor

8782 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why are Limestone structures eroded by acid rain?


How does the reactivity of group 7 elements (the halogens) change down the group and why? (A Level)


how do emulsifier molecules able to produce an emulsion that is a stable mixture containing vegetable oil and water?


Explain in terms of structure and bonding why graphite conducts electricity.


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences