SPS2. Atomic Bonding and Compounds

Front

What is an ionic compound?

Back

An ionic compound is a chemical compound composed of ions held together by electrostatic forces termed ionic bonding. They typically form between metals and nonmetals.

Front

What is a covalent compound?

Back

A covalent compound is a chemical compound formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms, usually between nonmetals.

Front

What is the general trend of boiling points in ionic vs. covalent compounds?

Back

Boiling points for ionic compounds are generally higher than boiling points for covalent compounds.

Front

Why do ionic compounds have high melting and boiling points?

Back

Ionic compounds have high melting and boiling points because they have many strong bonds between the ions.

Front

What does the subscript in a chemical formula indicate?

Back

The subscript indicates the number of atoms of the element in the compound. For example, in MgBr₂, the '2' indicates there are 2 bromide ions for every magnesium ion.

Front

What is the melting point of sugar compared to table salt?

Back

The melting point of sugar is less than the melting point of table salt.

Front

What are the physical properties of ionic compounds?

Back

Ionic compounds are usually hard and brittle.

Front

What is the charge of bromide ions in magnesium bromide (MgBr₂)?

Back

Bromide ions have a 1- charge.

Front

What type of bond is formed between two nonmetals?

Back

A covalent bond is formed between two nonmetals.

Front

What is the difference between ionic and covalent bonds?

Back

Ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, while covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons.