Explain a difference between ionic and covalent bonds
Ionic bonds are formed when there is a complete transfer of electrons from one atom to another. This creates oppositely charged ions that attract each other and form a bond. In an ionic bond, one atom loses electrons to become a positively charged ion or cation, while the other atom gains those electrons to become a negatively charged ion or anion. Ionic bonds usually occur between metal and non-metal atoms.
On the other hand, covalent bonds occur when atoms share electrons. In a covalent bond, neither atom completely loses or gains electrons, but rather they share them in a way that both atoms have a more stable electron configuration. Covalent bonds usually occur between non-metal atoms or between non-metal and metalloid atoms.
In summary, the main difference between ionic and covalent bonds lies in the transfer or sharing of electrons. Ionic bonds involve a complete transfer of electrons, whereas covalent bonds involve a sharing of electrons.