An ionic compound is a compound formed by ions bonding together through electrostatic forces. Ionic
compounds form when positive and negative ions share electrons and
form an ionic bond. The strong attraction between positive and negative
ions often produces crystalline solids that have high melting points. Ionic
bonds form instead of covalent bonds when there is a large difference in electronegativity
between the ions.
An ionic bond is formed when one atom accepts or donates one or more of
its valence electrons to another atom.
Example: ionic bond between the sodium and chloride ions in table salt, NaCl.
- Ionic compounds have high melting and boiling points.
- Ionic compounds are mostly soluble in water but insoluble in organic solvents.
- Ionic compounds can conduct electricity in molten state but cannot conduct electricity in solid state.