STUDENT SPACE · TOPIC 2

Ionic bonding and lattices

Explain electron transfer and the attraction between oppositely charged ions.

The essentials

Ionic bonds are strong electrostatic attractions between oppositely charged ions.
Electron transfer forms the ions. The attraction between those ions is the bond.
An ionic solid has a giant lattice of alternating positive and negative ions. Its formula gives a ratio, not a separate molecule.

Try each question before opening its hint or answer. Use paper for calculations and diagrams.

Why is “one sodium chloride molecule” unsuitable for solid sodium chloride?

Need a hint for Question 1?

Think about the repeating structure, rather than a pair of ions.

Check Question 1

Sodium chloride forms a giant ionic lattice, not separate molecules.

Explain why MgCl₂ needs two chloride ions for each magnesium ion.

Need a hint for Question 2?

The total positive and negative charges must cancel.

Check Question 2

Mg²⁺ has charge +2. Two Cl⁻ ions provide total charge −2.

Define an ionic bond.

Need a hint for Question 3?

Name the attractive force and the particles involved.

Check Question 3

A strong electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Use the matching chapter worksheet. Attempt independently, compare your reasoning with your partner, then bring unresolved questions to your teacher.