Ionic Bond — Definition, Formula, Properties & Uses | AllChemicals | AllChemicals

Also Known As	Electrovalent bond, Ion pair attraction

What is Ionic Bond?

A chemical bond formed by the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions (cation and anion). Formed when a metal transfers electrons to a nonmetal. Ionic compounds have high melting points, are hard and brittle, and conduct electricity when dissolved or melted.

Properties & Characteristics

Formed by electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. Occurs when electronegativity difference > 1.7. Properties: high melting/boiling points (NaCl: 801°C mp), brittle, hard, conduct electricity only when molten or dissolved, soluble in polar solvents. Lattice energy determines stability — calculated via Born-Haber cycle. Ionic radii affect crystal packing structure (rock salt, fluorite, wurtzite types).

Uses & Applications

Formation basis of all ionic compounds: salts (NaCl, KBr), metal oxides (MgO, CaO), ionic hydroxides (NaOH, KOH). Applications: table salt (food, chemical industry), cement and concrete (Ca²⁺ compounds), ceramics, electrolyte solutions in batteries, biological systems (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺ ions in cells), ion exchange resins, water softening.

Safety Information

Ionic compounds themselves vary widely in toxicity. Many are generally safe (NaCl), while others are extremely toxic (NaCN, BaCl₂). Always consult SDS. Strong ionic bases (NaOH) and strong ionic acids (in solution) are corrosive. Heating ionic salts can release toxic gases (e.g., NH₄Cl releases NH₃ and HCl).

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Ionic Bond

Index All "I" terms

Synonyms Electrovalent bond, Ion pair attraction

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ionic Bond?

A chemical bond formed by the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions (cation and anion). Formed when a metal transfers electrons to a nonmetal. Ionic compounds have high melting points, are hard and brittle, and conduct electricity when dissolved or melted.

What is Ionic Bond used for?

Is Ionic Bond hazardous?

More "I" Terms

Ideal Gas Ideal Gas Law PV = nRT | R = 8.314 J/(mol·K) Ideal Solution Ideal solution: Raoult's law holds; ΔH_mix = 0, ΔV_mix = 0 Ideal Solution Indicator Visual pH/endpoint indicator; e.g., phenolphthalein: colourless (acid) → pink (base) Indicators Indium In Induced Dipole Induced dipole: α × E (α = polarisability; E = electric field) Inert Gas Inert S Pair Effect Infrared Spectroscopy IR: 4000–400 cm⁻¹; C=O at ~1720 cm⁻¹ Inhibition Ki = [I]×Km / ([S](Vm/v − 1))

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