* Binary: A binary compound has only two elements. TiO2 has two elements (titanium and oxygen), so it fits this criterion.
* Ionic: Ionic compounds are formed by the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions (cations and anions). While titanium dioxide does have a metallic element (titanium) and a non-metallic element (oxygen), the bonding between them is primarily covalent.
Here's why the bonding is considered covalent:
* Electronegativity difference: The electronegativity difference between titanium and oxygen is significant, but not large enough to create a full transfer of electrons to form ions.
* Structure: Titanium dioxide has a complex crystal structure with a network of shared electrons, indicating covalent bonding.
Therefore, TiO2 is considered a covalent compound, not an ionic compound.
