Topic study hub
Bonding
This topic links bonding models to physical properties, molecular shape and intermolecular attractions.
21
Objectives
10
Flashcards
10
Questions
90 min
Study time
AqaA LevelChemistryPhysical chemistry
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Syllabus checklist
What you need to know
21 objective pages available
Ionic bonding4 objectives
- Describe ionic bonding as electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.
- Explain the formation of ionic lattices.
- Relate ionic lattice strength to charge and ionic radius.
- Explain the physical properties of ionic compounds using lattice structure.
Covalent bonding and molecular shape4 objectives
- Describe covalent bonding as shared pairs of electrons.
- Use electron-pair repulsion to predict shapes of simple molecules and ions.
- Explain the effect of lone pairs on bond angles.
- Draw or interpret simple molecular shapes and bond angles.
Metallic bonding4 objectives
- Describe metallic bonding as attraction between positive ions and delocalised electrons.
- Explain electrical conductivity in metals.
- Explain malleability and ductility using metallic bonding.
- Relate metallic bonding strength to melting point and structure.
Electronegativity and bond polarity4 objectives
- Define electronegativity as the ability of an atom to attract bonding electrons.
- Use electronegativity differences to explain polar bonds.
- Distinguish polar bonds from polar molecules.
- Use molecular shape to decide whether bond dipoles cancel.
Intermolecular forces5 objectives
- Describe London dispersion forces between molecules.
- Explain how molecular size and surface contact affect London forces.
- Describe permanent dipole-dipole forces.
- Describe hydrogen bonding and the conditions needed for it.
- Explain boiling point and volatility trends using intermolecular forces.
Key terms
Ionic bondElectrostatic attractionIonic BondIonic LatticeLattice energyBorn–Landé equationCoulombic attractionCovalent bondShared electron pairVSEPRSeesaw shapeLone pair
Exam tips
- Balance charges when writing ionic formulas: Always ensure the total positive charge equals the total negative charge to form a neutral compound.
- Use diagrams to illustrate ionic lattices: When explaining ionic bonding, include a diagram of the ionic lattice to visually represent the arrangement of ions.
Common mistakes
- Confusing ionic with covalent bonding: Ionic bonds involve electron transfer and the resulting electrostatic attraction between ions.
- Confusing ionic bonds with covalent bonds: Remember that ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons, resulting in the formation of charged ions.
Practice preview
- Which of the following best describes ionic bonding?
- Explain how the charges on the ions in sodium chloride (NaCl) are determined. Show the charge balance equation.
- Calculate the number of electrons transferred per mole of magnesium oxide (MgO) formed from magnesium metal and oxygen gas. Show the governing relationship, substitution, units, and significant figures.
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