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Chemistry / Unit 6   Chem 0961 short lesson, about 20 seconds

Ionic Bond Formation

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The idea

An ionic bond forms when one atom transfers valence electrons to another, producing a cation and an anion held together by electrostatic attraction.

In practice

Sodium transfers its one valence electron to chlorine, forming Na⁺ and Cl⁻ in sodium chloride.

Where people slip

An ionic bond is not shared electrons: it is transfer, then attraction between the resulting opposite charges.

Your place on the trail

Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.

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