Question

Explain how a covalent bond is different than an ionic bond. Which type of bond is the stronger of the two bonds? Give examples of molecules that are formed by each type of bond.

Answer 1

Answer & Explanation:

There are two types of bonds that we studied: ionic and covalent. Ionic bonds are named as such because they result from the transfer of electrons to complete the bond. You can think of this kind of like the ions are sharing to satisfy their outer energy levels. In most elements, the outer energy level is not full. Atoms naturally want a full set of electrons, so they hook up with an element that has one extra electron that it wants rid of. The atoms with an extra electron transfers the electron to the atom lacking one. The result is that both the atoms have satisfied their energy levels and a stable compound is formed out of two unstable elements. For example salt, a stable compound, is formed from the very unstable elements sodium and chlorine. A covalent bond works slightly differently. You can think of it like joining forces.. Two atoms share one electron, instead of the electron being donated. Water is an example of a covalent compound formed from 2 hydrogens and 1 oxygen atom.

Answer 2

Covalent bonding involves the sharing of electrons between atoms, and ionic bonding, ionic bonding involves the transfer of valence electrons. Ionic bonding is stronger. An ionic bond is Sodium flouride; a covalent bond is is sulphuric acid