Name and describe the type of bond in sodium chloride

Sodium chloride contains ionic bonds between sodium and chloride ions.Sodium has one electron in its outer shell, whereas chlorine has 7. Atoms are happiest when they have a full outer shell of electrons. Sodium can do this by giving up its electron in the outer shell, leaving the shell before it which is full. This electron is transferred to chlorine, giving it 8 electrons in its outer shell, meaning it is full.Due to the different numbers of electrons and protons in the sodium and chlorine, sodium has a +1 charge, and chlorine has a -1 charge and is now called chloride. These opposite charges attract and there is an electrostatic force of attraction between them, which is the ionic bond.

Answered by Emily H. Chemistry tutor

13184 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

So, what actually is a mole?


What is made when an acid is added to an alkali?


Explain why giant ionic lattices can conduct electricity when molten or in solution rather than as a solid.


Calculate the relative formula mass of water.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences