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

10442 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain which species is oxidised in this reaction: Br2 +2I– = 2Br– +I2


What is the difference between an endothermic and exothermic reaction? How would you determine if a reaction was endothermic or exothermic using simple lab equipment?


CuCl2 + 2NaOH --> Cu(OH)2 + 2NaCl. 100kg of CuCl2 reacts with excess Sodium Hydroxide. 50kg of Sodium Chloride is produced. Calculate the theoretical yield of Sodium Chloride, and hence the percentage yield of Iron in this reaction.


Calculate the relative molecular mass of CaCO3. (relative atomic mass (Ar): C= 12, Ca= 40, O= 16)


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