What is the difference between ionic and metallic bonding?

Ionic bonds occur between a metal and non-metal. In this type of bonding, the electrons in the outer shell are transferred from the metal to the non-metal. This is to allow the atoms to achieve a full outer shell of electrons. For example, when sodium chloride forms, sodium donates its one outer electron so that chlorine can achieve a full outer shell of 8 electrons. On the other hand metallic bonding occurs within metals. This is where the outer shell of electrons become delocalised (free to move around) in a sea of positive metal ions. For example, magnesium has 2 electrons in its outer shell. An electrostatic attraction forms between these delocalised electrons and the positive metal magnesium 2+ ions.

SH
Answered by Sareena H. Chemistry tutor

2603 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain why increasing the temperature of a reaction increases the rate of the reaction (2)


How do you know whether a compound is ionic or covalent and how can you find the conductivity rate for both heat and electricity?


Explain in terms of structure and bonding why graphite conducts electricity.


What is a mole and why do we use it? (chemistry)


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning