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Learn: Ionic Bonding
Edexcel GCSE Chemistry
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Welcome!Building on what you've already learned about atomic structure and the periodic table, let's explore ionic bonding together. This topic will help you understand how atoms form strong bonds by transferring electrons.
What is Ionic Bonding?Ionic bonding occurs when atoms transfer electrons to achieve a full outer shell of electrons, becoming ions. This bond forms between metals and non-metals. Metals lose electrons to become positively charged ions, while non-metals gain electrons to become negatively charged ions.
Why Does Ionic Bonding Occur?Atoms want to be stable, which means having a full outer shell of electrons. By transferring electrons, they achieve this stability. Oppositely charged ions are attracted to each other by strong electrostatic forces, forming an ionic bond.
Quick check: What is the main reason atoms form ionic bonds?
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How Are Ionic Bonds Formed?Ionic bonds are formed when a metal atom transfers electrons to a non-metal atom. For example, sodium (Na) loses one electron to become Na+, and chlorine (Cl) gains that electron to become Cl−. These oppositely charged ions attract each other, forming an ionic bond.
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Properties of Ionic CompoundsIonic compounds have high melting and boiling points because their ions are held together by strong electrostatic forces. They form giant ionic lattices, which are regular structures where each ion is surrounded by oppositely charged ions.
Which of the following are properties of ionic compounds? (Select all that apply)
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What is a Giant Ionic Lattice?A giant ionic lattice is a regular repeating structure of ions. It is formed because the strong electrostatic forces between oppositely charged ions hold them together in a fixed pattern. These lattices give ionic compounds their high melting points and hardness.
An ionic bond forms when electrons are {{blank0}} from one atom to another. Metals lose electrons to become {{blank1}} ions, while non-metals gain electrons to become {{blank2}} ions.
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Why Do Ionic Compounds Conduct Electricity?In a solid ionic compound, ions are held tightly in place, so they cannot move freely, and the compound cannot conduct electricity. However, when melted or dissolved in water, the ions become free to move, allowing ionic compounds to conduct electricity.
Why do ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved in water?
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned about ionic bonding, how it forms, and the properties of ionic compounds. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.
Which statements about ionic compounds are true? (Select all that apply)
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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