What is Ionic bonding?

Ionic bonding is bonding between a metal and a non-metal. This happens due to a transferal of electrons. For example a metal from group 2 such as Magnesium bonding to a non-metal from group 6 such as oxygen. Magnesium will give its 2 outer electrons to oxygen. In doing this Magnesium now has a full outer shell with a charge of +2 since it lost 2 electrons and oxygen has a full outer shell with the charge -2 since it gained 2 electrons.It has a giant ionic lattice with strong electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions. This means it requires a lot of energy to break the bonds. The buzzword phrase would be - Electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions.

BB
Answered by Bobby B. Chemistry tutor

2530 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What processes occur throughout the limestone cycle? (3 marks)


How does fractional distillation separate different hydrocarbons in crude oil?


How can work out the number of protons, neutrons and electrons in this atom of an element?


In the Haber process, the best yield of ammonia is produced at a low temperature. Explain why


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