An ionic bond is formed by
- A. the sharing of a pair of electrons between two atoms
- B. the complete transfer of electrons from a metal to a non metal
- C. the overlap of two half filled orbitals
- D. the delocalisation of electrons over a lattice of cations
Explanation
Transfer produces oppositely charged ions held by electrostatic attraction, which is why ionic compounds have high melting points and conduct when molten. Sharing gives a covalent bond and delocalisation gives metallic bonding. Ionic character increases as the electronegativity difference between the two atoms widens.