* Ionic bonds form between a metal and a nonmetal. The metal loses electrons to become a positively charged cation, and the nonmetal gains electrons to become a negatively charged anion. The opposite charges attract, forming the bond.
Let's analyze each compound:
* LiF (Lithium fluoride): Lithium (Li) is a metal, and Fluorine (F) is a nonmetal. This is a classic ionic bond.
* NaCl (Sodium chloride): Sodium (Na) is a metal, and Chlorine (Cl) is a nonmetal. This is also a classic ionic bond.
* MgF2 (Magnesium fluoride): Magnesium (Mg) is a metal, and Fluorine (F) is a nonmetal. This forms an ionic bond.
* CH4 (Methane): Carbon (C) and Hydrogen (H) are both nonmetals. They share electrons in a covalent bond, not an ionic bond.
In summary: Ionic bonds typically occur between metals and nonmetals. CH4, with two nonmetals, forms a covalent bond.
