Ionic Bonds: Chemistry’s Magnetic Attractions

The video tutorial explains ionic bonds as electrostatic attractions between oppositely charged ions formed by electron transfer from metals to non-metals. It describes how metals with low ionization energy become cations, while non-metals with high electron affinity become anions. The mutual attraction between these ions forms an ionic bond, reducing the system's potential energy. The tutorial also highlights that alkali and alkaline earth metals typically form cations, while elements like halogens form anions. For an ionic bond to form, the electronegativity difference between the atoms should exceed 1.7.

What is the primary characteristic of an ionic bond?

• Electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions

• Sharing of electrons between atoms

• Covalent bonding between non-metals

• Formation of a metallic lattice

What happens to a metal atom when it transfers an electron to a non-metal?

• It forms a covalent bond

• It becomes a positively charged cation

• It remains neutral

• It becomes a negatively charged anion

Which of the following best describes an anion?

• A positively charged ion

• A neutral atom

• A negatively charged ion

• An ion with no charge

Which type of elements typically form cations?

• Halogens

• Alkali metals

• Noble gases

• Non-metals

What is the minimum electronegativity difference required for the formation of an ionic bond?

• 2.5

• 1.7

• 1.0

• 0.5