Describe Ionic/ covalent bonding

Ionic bonding: When a metal loses electron(s) and a non-metal gains electron(s) to achieve a full outer shell For example, sodium chloride (NaCl) Points to make: Which atom loses electrons Which atom gains electrons Both ions have a full outer shell Oppositely charged ions electrostatically attract each other
Covalent bonding: When two non-metals share a pair of electronsFor example, chlorine (Cl2)Points to make: A chlorine atom has seven electrons on its outer shell. Therefore it needs to gain 1 electron to achieve a full outer shell It can therefore share 1 pair of electrons It therefore forms one covalent bond The covalent bond in the chlorine molecule is strong

Answered by Aimee L. Chemistry tutor

1679 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Using collision theory, explain why increasing the concentration of a reactant increases the rate of reaction.


What happens to the reactivity of Group 1 elements going down the group and describe why that trend occurs?


Explain the molecular structure of CH4 (methane)


Outline the limestone cycle including the relevant equations.


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