AllChemicals — The Online Chemical Glossary | https://allchemicals.info/chemical/521-ionic-bond
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Quick Reference
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.
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.
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 ce…
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 …
Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature,
CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA,
and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified
professionals before handling chemicals.
