Ionic Substances

Definition

Ionic substances are compounds made up of positive and negative ions that are held together by electrostatic forces. These compounds typically consist of a metal and a non-metal.

Related terms

Crystal lattice: A three-dimensional repeating pattern formed by the arrangement of ions in an ionic substance.

Electrostatic attraction: The force of attraction between positively and negatively charged ions in an ionic substance.

Conductivity:

The ability of an ionic substance to conduct electricity when dissolved in water or melted.