Ionic compounds generally do not bend; instead, they form crystals with a specific lattice structure. The arrangement of ions in an ionic crystal depends on several factors, including the charges of the ions and their relative sizes.

Ionic crystals are typically rigid and brittle due to the strong electrostatic forces between the oppositely charged ions. These forces hold the ions in fixed positions, preventing them from bending or deforming.

In contrast, covalent compounds, which are held together by covalent bonds, can often bend or flex because the covalent bonds allow for some degree of movement and flexibility between the atoms.