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

2725 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between an alkane and and alkene


Describe the difference between bases and alkalis, and explain acid-alkali neutralisation reactions.


What is covalent bonding?


NaOH has a high melting point and conducts electricity in solution. H2O has a low melting point and does not conduct electricity. Explain, using the structure of each, why this is the case.


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