What is the difference between ionic and covalent bonding?

With ionic bonding, two ions of the opposite charge are attracted to each other to form the bond. With ionic bonding, it is the strong electrostatic force of attraction between ions. While, covalent bonding involves the sharing of electrons between two nonmetals to form a bond between them. Ionic bonding involves bonding of ions of the opposite charge while covalent bonding involves the sharing of electrons.

SV
Answered by Shravya V. Chemistry tutor

2886 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how electricity is conducted in a metal.


Which is more reactive, chlorine or iodine. Explain why. (4 marks)


What is the overall charge of the nucleus of an atom, and why?


The same mass of large, medium and small marbles where reacted separately with diluted HCl. This is and exothermic reaction. Will the rise in temperature for each reaction differ? If yes than why?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning