Question

remember the difference between ionic and covalent bonds? this difference will be important to remember as we start to make lewis structures for different compounds. take a look at the image to the right, and select the best answer to the following question. what distinguishes covalent and ionic bonds? select all that apply: electrons are shared in ionic bonds. electrons are shared in covalent bonds. electrons do not move independently in ionic bonds. electrons do not move independently in covalent bonds.

Explanation:

• In ionic bonds, electrons are transferred (e.g., from Na to Cl as in the image), creating ions that are electrostatically attracted. Electrons are not shared in ionic bonds.
• In covalent bonds, atoms share electrons (as shown in the covalent bond part of the image).
• For the statement about electrons moving independently: In ionic bonds, after electron transfer, the ions are in a fixed electrostatic - bonded state (electrons don't move independently in the sense of free - electron movement like in some metallic or covalent - network - free - electron - sharing in a non - bonded way). In covalent bonds, electrons are shared between atoms and are not free to move independently in the same way as, say, free electrons in a metal.

Answer:

• Electrons are shared in covalent bonds.
• Electrons do not move independently in ionic bonds.
• Electrons do not move independently in covalent bonds.