What is the difference between ionic and covalent compounds?

Ionic compounds are compounds formed through the transfer of electrons from a highly electronegative atom to a less electronegative atom. These compounds are formed between atoms that are ready to lose the valence electrons in their outermost shells and those that are ready to accept the electrons. And because of the gap in the electronegativity of these two atoms, there is always an electrostatic force of attraction known as the ionic bond between them.

Ionic compounds are formed between metals and non-metals. Due to the nature of the bond in ionic compounds, they usually have high melting and boiling points. On the other hand, covalent compounds are formed between atoms that share their valence electrons in order to become stable.

These types of compounds are formed by non-metals or elements of the same kind. Also, covalent compounds are formed between two atoms with similar electronegativity. The force of attraction in covalent compounds are weaker than the one in ionic compounds.

There are many differences between ionic and covalent compounds. One of the key differences between them is how they are formed. Ionic bonds are formed by ions. These ions are charged particles. Covalent bonds are formed when atoms share an interatomic space.

Another difference between them is in regards to the stability of each compound. The Ionic bonds have a stability that is more stable than covalent bonds. Another aspect that ionic compounds are higher in is that they have higher melting and boiling points, while covalent bonds have lower melting and boiling points.

The structure of each bond is also different. Covalent ones will be more soft and have more flexibility. Ionic compounds have a structure that is like crystals.

There are two types of basic bonds that are known right now. These two types are ionic and covalent. When you say ionic bond, this is characterized by different electrons that are transferring in order to form more stable bonds.

When you say covalent, this is characterized by different elements that may be sharing some electrons to become stable. The sharing of electrons will happen because the different atoms do not repel or attract each other. They will stay in their place to maintain the stability of the elements or compounds.

The main differences between ionic and covalent compounds are as follows:

1. Ionic bonds are formed through ions which are charged particles. They become charged particles when electrons are either gained or lost by an atom. The charge depends on the valency of the element. Whereas in a covalent bond, the atoms are shared in the interatomic spaces between two atoms.

2. Ionic bonds tend to be very stable(few exceptions). A Covalent bond's stability depends on the polarity between the two atoms and the number of elements involved in a bond.

3. Ionic compounds have higher boiling and melting points as compared to covalent compounds.

4. Ionic compounds tend to have crystal-like structures. Covalent compounds are flexible and soft and are usually gases and liquids.

5.Covalent compounds are usually flammable since most of them contain hydrogen.

6. Ionic compounds conduct electricity in water. Covalent compounds do not. Ionic compounds are also more soluble.