Question

Are metal and non-metal elements typically ionically bonded? Explain.

Answer 1

Answer: Yes, metals and non-metals forms ionic bonds.

Explanation:

Ionic bond is defined as the bond which is formed by complete transfer of electrons from one atom to another atom.

The atom which looses the electron is known as electropositive atom and the atom which gains the electron is known as electronegative atom. This bond is usually formed between a metal and a non-metal.

For Example: Formation of sodium chloride

Sodium is a metal and is the 11th element of periodic table having electronic configuration of $[Ne]3s^1$

To form $Na^{+}$ ion, this element will loose 1 electron.

Chlorine is a non-metal and is the 17th element of periodic table having electronic configuration of $[Ne]3s^23p^5$.

To form $Cl^{-}$ ion, this element will gain 1 electron.

By criss-cross method, the oxidation state of the ions gets exchanged and they form the subscripts of the other ions. This results in the formation of a neutral compound.

So, the compound formed between sodium and chlorine atom is NaCl

Hence, metals and non-metals forms ionic bonds.