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

2874 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why is cyclohexa-1,3,5-triene no longer accepted for the structure of benzene where the molecular formula is C6H6? Which is more stable and why?


What is ionic bonding and what are the characteristics of this type of bonding?


What are polymers and why are they useful?


List simple experimental tests to determine if either Hydrogen, Oxygen, Chlorine or Carbon Dioxide gas was produced in a reaction. State conditions and expected positive results for each


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