Understanding Ionic Bonding

Ionic bonding occurs through the transfer of electrons between metal and non-metal atoms, allowing both elements to achieve full outer electron shells. This fundamental chemical process results in the formation of positively and negatively charged ions.

The process is clearly illustrated through dot and cross diagrams showing electron transfer. For example, lithium reacts with fluorine where lithium loses one electron to form Li+ while fluorine gains one electron to form F-.

Definition: An ion is an atom with an overall electrical charge, formed by gaining or losing electrons.

Example: When sodium reacts with chlorine, one electron transfers from sodium to chlorine, forming Na+ and Cl- ions, both achieving full outer energy levels.

Highlight: Group 1 metals typically lose one electron to form +1 ions, while Group 7 non-metals gain one electron to form -1 ions.

Vocabulary: Dot and cross diagrams are visual representations showing electron arrangements and transfer between atoms during ionic bonding.