Ionic Bonding: Answers

Define the term ‘ionic bond’.

An ionic bond is the electrostatic attraction between two oppositely charged ions.

By working out the charge on each ion, state the formulas of the following molecules: calcium hydroxide, magnesium bromide, sodium chloride, barium sulfate, aluminium chloride and potassium sulfate.

Draw a dot-and-cross diagram to show the formation of sodium chloride.

Under what conditions can ionic compounds conduct electricity?

Substances can only conduct electricity when its particles are charged and free to move. Ionic compounds contain charged particles but these are only able to move when they are molten or aqueous.