Mention the similarities & differences between ionic & covalent Compound’s
Similarities between ionic and covalent compounds:
1. Both ionic and covalent compounds are composed of atoms that are bonded together.
2. Both types of compounds can exist in solid, liquid, or gaseous states.
3. Both types of compounds can be formed by combining different elements.
4. Both types of compounds have specific chemical formulas that represent the ratio of atoms present in the compound.
Differences between ionic and covalent compounds:
1. Bonding: Ionic compounds are formed through the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in the formation of positively and negatively charged ions. Covalent compounds are formed through the sharing of electrons between atoms.
2. Type of elements: Ionic compounds are typically formed by the combination of a metal and a non-metal, whereas covalent compounds are formed by the combination of non-metals.
3. Conductivity: Ionic compounds are generally good conductors of electricity when dissolved in water or melted, as they dissociate into ions. Covalent compounds, on the other hand, are mostly non-conductors of electricity.
4. Solubility: Ionic compounds are usually soluble in polar solvents, such as water, due to their ability to interact with the polar molecules. Covalent compounds can be soluble in polar or non-polar solvents, depending on their polarity.
5. Melting and boiling points: Ionic compounds generally have higher melting and boiling points compared to covalent compounds. This is because ionic compounds exhibit strong electrostatic forces of attraction between ions, while covalent compounds have weaker forces of attraction between molecules.
6. Physical properties: Ionic compounds tend to have crystalline structures, whereas covalent compounds can exist as solids, liquids, or gases and may exhibit a wider range of physical properties.
Overall, the main difference between ionic and covalent compounds lies in the nature of their bonding and the type of elements involved in their formation.