How do each of ionic, covalent and metallic bonding compare?

To begin, it is important to note that each of these three types of bonding is very strong.

Both ionic and metallic bonding rely on electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged particles. In ionic compounds this is the attraction between oppositely charged ions, meanwhile in metals it is the attraction between positively charged metal ions and a sea of delocalised electrons. These "free" electrons give metals the properties of malleability and electrical conductivity. 

Covalently bonded molecules share a pair of electrons in a bond. Though their intra-molecular bonding is very strong, simple covalent molecules are attracted to each other by relatively weaker intermolecular forces known as Van der Waals. forces

AA
Answered by Alia A. Chemistry tutor

11949 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between ionic and covalent bonding?


Explain how we can increase the rate of a chemical reaction.(6 marks)


Describe how elements of the periodic table are arranged relating to their atomic structure. (6 marks)


Explain the collision theory.


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning