In contrast to covalent bonds, an ionic bond involves an unequal sharing of electrons is a force of attraction between different molecules results in a partial positive or negative charge on a molecule occurs when electrons are gained or lost
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: “Occurs when electrons are gained or lost.”
An ionic bond is formed when atoms gain or lose electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration. This process typically occurs between a metal atom and a non-metal atom. The metal atom tends to lose one or more electrons, becoming a positively charged ion (cation), while the non-metal atom gains those electrons, becoming a negatively charged ion (anion). The resulting oppositely charged ions are attracted to each other due to electrostatic forces, creating the ionic bond.
Unlike covalent bonds, where electrons are shared between atoms, ionic bonds involve the complete transfer of electrons from one atom to another. This transfer leads to the formation of ions, which are atoms or molecules that carry a charge due to the loss or gain of electrons. The attraction between the positively charged cation and the negatively charged anion holds the two ions together, creating a stable ionic compound.
In ionic bonding, the sharing of electrons is unequal and, in fact, the electrons are not shared at all. Instead, the metal atom loses electrons to become a positively charged ion, while the non-metal atom gains those electrons, becoming a negatively charged ion. This type of bond usually forms when the difference in electronegativity between the two atoms is significant enough that one atom is able to completely transfer electrons to the other.
The strong electrostatic force of attraction between the oppositely charged ions results in the formation of a solid structure known as an ionic lattice. These compounds typically have high melting and boiling points and are often soluble in water due to their ability to dissociate into ions.
Thus, the defining characteristic of an ionic bond is the transfer of electrons, which contrasts with the electron-sharing in covalent bonds.
