* Sodium (Na) is a metal and has a low ionization energy, meaning it readily loses its outermost electron to become a positively charged ion (Na+).
* Chlorine (Cl) is a nonmetal and has a high electron affinity, meaning it readily gains an electron to become a negatively charged ion (Cl-).
When sodium and chlorine react, sodium donates its electron to chlorine. This transfer of electrons creates electrostatic attraction between the oppositely charged ions, resulting in the formation of an ionic bond. The resulting compound, sodium chloride (NaCl), is a crystal lattice held together by these ionic bonds.
Key Differences between Covalent and Ionic Bonds:
* Covalent Bonds: Involve the sharing of electrons between atoms.
* Ionic Bonds: Involve the transfer of electrons between atoms, resulting in the formation of ions that are held together by electrostatic attraction.
