Ionic and molecular compounds are two types of chemical compounds that differ in their composition and properties.
Ionic Compounds
Ionic compounds are formed when metals transfer electrons to non-metals, resulting in the formation of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. These oppositely charged ions are held together by strong electrostatic forces known as ionic bonds. Ionic compounds typically have high melting and boiling points, are solid at room temperature, and conduct electricity when dissolved in water or melted.
Molecular Compounds
Molecular compounds, on the other hand, are formed when non-metals share electrons through covalent bonds. These compounds consist of molecules rather than ions. Molecular compounds generally have lower melting and boiling points compared to ionic compounds, can be found in all three states of matter (solid, liquid, gas) at room temperature, and do not conduct electricity in any state.
Key Differences
- Formation: Ionic compounds are formed by the transfer of electrons, while molecular compounds are formed by the sharing of electrons.
- Bond Type: Ionic compounds have ionic bonds, whereas molecular compounds have covalent bonds.
- Physical State: Ionic compounds are usually solid at room temperature, while molecular compounds can be solid, liquid, or gas.
- Conductivity: Ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved or melted, but molecular compounds do not.
- Melting and Boiling Points: Ionic compounds have higher melting and boiling points compared to molecular compounds.