Explanation:
An ionic bond is defined as the bond formed because of transfer of electrons from one atom to another. On the other hand, a covalent bond is the bond formed because of sharing of electrons from one atom to another.
So, basically electrons play an important role in the formation of ionic or covalent bonds.
Also, when there is difference in electronegativity of combining atoms then a partial positive charge develops on the metal atom and a partial negative charge develops on non-metal atom.
For example, LiCl compound is ionic and due to difference in electronegativities of Li and Cl atoms they have partial charges as and .
Thus, we can conclude that the relative ionic or covalent character of chemical bonds may be estimated by:
- the total number of electrons for each element.
- the difference in electronegativities.