Describe the structure and bonding of sodium chloride

Sodium chloride is a giant ionic lattice consisting of alternating, adjacent positively charged sodium ions and negatively charged chloride ions in a regular arrangement of rows and columns. The ions are held together in the lattice by strong ionic bonds between the oppositely charged sodium and chloride ions. These ionic bonds form when the less electronegative sodium atoms donate 1 electron to 1 chlorine atom, which is more electronegative. This way the sodium ion formed has a positive charge of +1, having lost 1 electron, and the chloride ion has a negative charge of -1, having gained 1 electron; both are now more stable with a full outer shell of 8 electrons.

Answered by Olivia H. Chemistry tutor

16549 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the empirical formula of a compound with the following composition by mass, 48.0g C, 4.0g H and 48.0g O?


How does bonding effect the melting point of a substance?


Define an isotope.


Why don't atoms have an overall charge?


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 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences