Chapter U1, Problem SIV2RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The meaning of ionic compound needs to be explained along with their formation.

Concept introduction:

The interactions that results in the association of atoms into ions, molecules, compounds, crystals and other species are known as chemical bonding.

Explanation of Solution

The bond formed between oppositely charged ions (formed by transfer of electrons) is said to be an ionic bond. The components involved in ionic bond formation are charged that is cation and anion (cations are positively charged ions formed due to loss of electron(s) whereas anions are negatively charged ions formed due to addition of electron(s)). These resulting ions achieve their octet. Thus, the ions are held together in an ionic compound by electrostatic force of attraction. The complete transfer of electron(s) takes place from metal to a non-metal and compounds composed of ionic bonds are called ionic compounds.

For example: The formation of potassium chloride:

The components involved in the formation of potassium chloride are potassium, which is metal and chlorine, which is non-metal. The electronic configuration of both the components are:

$\begin{array}{l}\text{K: }\left[\text{Ar}\right]\text{ 4s¹}\\ \text{Cl: }\left[\text{Ne}\right]{\text{ 3s² 3p}}^{\text{5}}\end{array}$

So, in order to complete their octet, the potassium will lose its valence electron and form ${\text{K}}^{+}$ and chlorine will accept the electron and form ${\text{Cl}}^{\text{-}}$. Due to opposite charges these ions are held together by electrostatic force of attraction and results in the formation of an ionic compound, potassium chloride, ${\text{K}}^{+}{\text{Cl}}^{\text{-}}$ or $\text{KCl}$.