Ionic vs covalent bonds
Ionic bonds transfer electrons (metal + non-metal); covalent bonds share them (non-metals).
The common mistake
Calling water ionic, or saying ionic bonds share electrons.
Instead: Metal + non-metal → electrons transferred → ions (NaCl). Non-metal + non-metal → electrons shared → molecules (H₂O, CO₂).
Worked example with Guide me
What type of bond is in magnesium oxide (MgO)?
- Sugar · Is magnesium a metal?Student · Yes.
- Sugar · Oxygen?Student · Non-metal.
Answer: Ionic — Mg gives 2 electrons to O.
Try 3 practice questions
1. Bond type in CH₄?
Show answer
Covalent
2. Bond type in KCl?
Show answer
Ionic
3. Which conducts electricity when melted — ionic or simple covalent?
Show answer
Ionic
Quick answers
- What is the most common mistake with ionic vs covalent bonds?
- Calling water ionic, or saying ionic bonds share electrons.
- How do I get ionic vs covalent bonds right?
- Metal + non-metal → electrons transferred → ions (NaCl). Non-metal + non-metal → electrons shared → molecules (H₂O, CO₂).
- Can you show a worked example?
- What type of bond is in magnesium oxide (MgO)? Ionic — Mg gives 2 electrons to O.
Related concepts
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