What is the difference between ionic and metallic bonding?

Ionic bonds occur between a metal and non-metal. In this type of bonding, the electrons in the outer shell are transferred from the metal to the non-metal. This is to allow the atoms to achieve a full outer shell of electrons. For example, when sodium chloride forms, sodium donates its one outer electron so that chlorine can achieve a full outer shell of 8 electrons. On the other hand metallic bonding occurs within metals. This is where the outer shell of electrons become delocalised (free to move around) in a sea of positive metal ions. For example, magnesium has 2 electrons in its outer shell. An electrostatic attraction forms between these delocalised electrons and the positive metal magnesium 2+ ions.

SH

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the trend of reactivity in group 1 metals?


Describe how crude oil is separated into fractions in industry


How do some toxic chemicals cause environmental and health problems? (2 Marks)


Describe and explain how changes in the earth atmosphere, from the Precambrian Era (where the earth as occupied by volcanoes), have changed to form the surface of the Earth today and its atmosphere.