Ionic vs Covalent bonding Explained

What is ionic bonding?

Ionic bonding is the strong electrostatic force of attraction between oppositely charged ions. Ions are formed when atoms gain electrons or lose electrons.

When atoms gain electrons, they become negatively charged particles or ions; these ions are called anions.

When atoms lose electrons, they become positively charged particles or ions; these ions are called cations.

Fig.1 – diagram shows ionic bond formation between Lithium and Fluorine ions. The Lithium ion forms when the Lithium atom loses 1 electron. This electron is given to the Fluorine atom. As a result, the Fluorine atom becomes a Fluorine ion.

Illustration showing the formation of lithium fluoride (LiF) from lithium (Li) and fluorine (F) atoms. The top section depicts the atomic structure of Li and F, while the bottom section displays the resulting Li+ and F- ions.

What is covalent bonding?

A covalent bond is formed when two non-metal atoms share a pair of electrons. The shared electrons would usually be in the outer shells of the atoms.

Fig.2 – diagram shows covalent bond formation between two hydrogen atoms where each hydrogen atom shares a pair of electrons. A hydrogen molecule, H₂, is formed.