Conceptual Chemistry notes

When atoms gain or lose electrons they form ions. In this lesson, we'll explore which elements prefer to gain, which prefer to lose, and why. When positively charged cations combine with negatively charged anions, their opposite charges cause an electrostatic attraction, which draws them together to form an ionic compound. The attraction between them is known as a ionic bond. Metals are held together by a unique type of bonding where the valence electrons from multiple atoms are pooled to f...

When atoms gain or lose electrons they form ions. In this lesson, we'll explore which elements prefer to gain, which prefer to lose, and why. When positively charged cations combine with negatively charged anions, their opposite charges cause an electrostatic attraction, which draws them together to form an ionic compound. The attraction between them is known as a ionic bond. Metals are held together by a unique type of bonding where the valence electrons from multiple atoms are pooled to f...