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Ionic Bonding

Definition

Ionic bonding is a type of chemical bond where one atom transfers one or more electrons to another atom, resulting in positive and negative ions which attract each other.

Analogy

Imagine ionic bonding like sharing popcorn at a movie theater. If your friend has too much popcorn (electrons), he might give some to you if you don't have enough. Now he feels lighter (positive ion) and you feel heavier (negative ion). Because opposites attract, you two become inseparable buddies for the rest of the movie!

Related terms

Covalent Bonding: A type of chemical bond where atoms share electron pairs with each other instead of transferring them.

Metallic Bonding: A type of chemical bond found in metals where electrons are shared among many atoms leading to properties such as conductivity and malleability.

Valence Electrons: These are electrons located in an atom's outermost shell. They participate in forming bonds with other atoms.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.