- Ionic bonding = electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions
- Occurs between metals and non-metals
- Electrons are TRANSFERRED — NOT shared (that's covalent!)
- Metals LOSE electrons → form POSITIVE ions (cations)
- Non-metals GAIN electrons → form NEGATIVE ions (anions)
- Group number = charge for Groups 1, 2, 6, 7 (with appropriate sign)
- Both ions achieve full outer shells — like noble gas configurations
- The bond is the attraction — there's no physical "stick" between ions
This key facts covers Key Facts to Memorise within Ionic Bonding for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Ionic Bonding in Bonding & Structure for GCSE Chemistry with 35 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 8 of 16 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Ionic Bonding
Which combination of elements forms an ionic compound?
Describe the structure of an ionic compound and explain why ionic compounds have high melting points. [3 marks]
Quick recall flashcards
What is an anion?
A negative ion (formed when non-metals gain electrons)
What is a cation?
A positive ion (formed when metals lose electrons)