Dextrose, also known as glucose or d-glucose, is a molecular compound, not an ionic compound. It is a simple sugar with the chemical formula C6H12O6, and its molecules are held together by covalent bonds between the carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. In dextrose, there is no transfer or sharing of electrons between atoms to form ions, which is characteristic of ionic compounds. Instead, the atoms are covalently bonded, sharing electron pairs to achieve a stable electron configuration.

Ionic compounds are formed when there is a complete transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in the formation of positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions). The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions holds the ionic compound together. In contrast, molecular compounds are formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms, leading to the formation of covalent bonds. The covalent bonds in dextrose hold the atoms together and determine its molecular properties, such as its structure, shape, and reactivity.