What are the differences between compounds with covalent and ionic bonds?
Posted February 14, 2024
Basis of differentiation |
Covalent compounds |
Ionic compounds |
Definition |
Covalent compounds are molecules formed by the sharing of electrons between nonmetal atoms |
Ionic compounds are formed by the transfer of electrons from a metal to a nonmetal, resulting in anions and cations |
States |
Exist in liquid, solid, and gas phases |
Generally, ionic compounds exist in a solid-state unless dissolved in water |
Solubility |
They are typically insoluble in water |
Are highly soluble in water |
Melting and boiling points |
Have low melting and boiling points |
Have high melting and boiling points |
Conductivity |
Have poor conductivity since they are neutral molecules |
In the liquid state, ions become free to move throughout the solution, facilitating the conduction of electricity |
Electronegativity |
Share similar electronegativity of atoms |
Exhibit significant difference in electronegativity of atoms |