What are the differences between ionic and covalent bonds?
Differences between ionic and covalent bonds:
| Ionic bonds | Covalent bonds |
|---|---|
| Ionic bond is formed by the transfer of electrons from one atom to another atom. It is also known as electrovalent bond. | Covalent bond is formed by the sharing of valence electrons between atoms of similar electronegativity |
| Occurs between a metal and a non-metal | Occurs between two non-metals. |
| Ionic bonds do not have definite shape | Covalent bonds have definite shape |
| They exists in solid state at room temperature | They exist in liquid or gaseous state at room temperature |
| They have high boiling and melting points | They have low boiling and melting points. |