Chemical Compounds: Covalent & Ionic Bonding Explained

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The discussion centers on the formation of covalent and ionic bonds, highlighting that ionic bonding occurs due to the attraction between oppositely charged atoms. A key point raised is whether the proximity of these atoms could lead to electron sharing, thus forming covalent bonds instead. The conversation emphasizes that the ability of atoms to retain their electrons—related to their electronegativity—determines whether they form ionic or covalent bonds. It is noted that covalent bonds are generally stronger, and the ease of bond formation varies among elements due to differences in electronegativity. The discussion concludes with a question about the participants' level of chemistry knowledge, indicating a range of understanding among contributors.
LogicalAcid
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There are two ways to form these: through Covalent and Ionic bonding, correct? But I have always wondered something about Ionic bonding, if two atoms are attracted to each other due to opposite charges, shouldn't they be close enough to make the electrons be attracted into the opposite atom and basically form a covalent bond?
 
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Depends on how tightly they keep electrons to themselves.
 
Borek said:
Depends on how tightly they keep electrons to themselves.

Related to the electronegativity of an atom riiiiight?
 
Good point.
 
Borek said:
Good point.

Sooo?
 
So if they keep electrons close enough, they don't share them, and the bond stays ionic.
 
Borek said:
So if they keep electrons close enough, they don't share them, and the bond stays ionic.

Click.
 
LogicalAcid said:
Click.

Covalent bonds are stronger then, so is it true that some elements form one type of bond easier than others? Because electronegativity differs.
 
LogicalAcid said:
so is it true that some elements form one type of bond easier than others?

Yes, and electronegativity is one of the reasons.

What is level of chemistry you are learning?
 

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