Which statement correctly describes a similarity and a difference between ionic and covalent bonds?

• A. Both involve the transfer of electrons; however, ionic bonds form molecules, while covalent bonds form crystals.
• B. Both involve the sharing of electrons; however, ionic bonds occur between nonmetals, while covalent bonds occur between metals.
• C. Both are formed only between metals; however, ionic bonds are stronger than covalent bonds.
• D. Both result in the formation of stable compounds; however, ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons, while covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key characteristics of ionic bonds: they form through the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, typically between a metal and a nonmetal, resulting in the formation of charged ions.
2. Identify the key characteristics of covalent bonds: they form through the sharing of electrons between atoms, usually between nonmetals, resulting in the formation of molecules.
3. Recognize the similarity: both ionic and covalent bonds result in the formation of stable compounds by achieving a full valence shell for the atoms involved.
4. Recognize the difference: ionic bonds involve electron transfer leading to ions, while covalent bonds involve electron sharing without forming ions.
5. Evaluate the given statements based on these points to determine which correctly describes both a similarity and a difference between ionic and covalent bonds.