What is a Chemical Bond?
A chemical bond is a lasting attraction between atoms, ions, or molecules that enables the formation of chemical compounds. Bonds are classified into three main types: ionic, covalent, and metallic.
Ionic Bonds
Ionic bonds occur when electrons are transferred from one atom to another. This typically happens between metals and nonmetals, leading to the formation of charged ions. The electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions holds them together, creating compounds such as sodium chloride (NaCl).
Covalent Bonds
In covalent bonds, electrons are shared between atoms. This type of bond usually forms between nonmetals. The sharing of electrons allows each atom to achieve a full outer shell, exemplified by molecules like water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Metallic Bonds
Metallic bonds involve the pooling of free electrons from a lattice of metal atoms. This electron sea provides metallic properties like conductivity and malleability. Metals such as copper and aluminum exhibit these bonding characteristics, making them essential in various applications.
Understanding chemical bonds is fundamental in chemistry, as they dictate the structure, properties, and behavior of substances.