Chapter 6: Problem 39

How does an ionic compound differ from a molecular compound?

Short Answer

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Ionic compounds are formed through electron transfer between a metal and a non-metal and involve ionic bonds. They usually have high melting/boiling points and are good electricity conductors. Molecular compounds, however, are formed when non-metals share electrons, hence forming covalent bonds. They usually have lower melting/boiling points and are less likely to conduct electricity.

Step by step solution

Understanding Ionic Compounds

An ionic compound is formed by the complete transfer of electrons from a metal to a non-metal. This transfer of electrons causes an electrostatic attraction between the two atoms, leading to the formation of positive and negative ions which are held together by ionic bonds. Ionic compounds tend to be soluble in water, have high melting and boiling points, and are good conductors of electricity when dissolved or melted.

Understanding Molecular Compounds

A molecular compound, on the other hand, is composed of two or more nonmetals. Instead of transferring electrons as in ionic compounds, the atoms in molecular compounds share electrons, leading to the formation of covalent bonds. Molecular compounds tend to be insoluble or less soluble in water, have lower melting and boiling points compared to ionic compounds, and are poor conductors of electricity.

Comparing Ionic and Molecular Compounds

In summary, ionic and molecular compounds differ in terms of their formation, bonding, and physical properties. The key difference is that ionic compounds are formed through the transfer of electrons and involve electrostatic attraction (ionic bonds) between ions, while molecular compounds are formed through the sharing of electrons (covalent bonds).

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How does an ionic compound differ from a molecular compound?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Ionic Compounds

Understanding Molecular Compounds

Comparing Ionic and Molecular Compounds

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