Which of the following statements correctly describes a key difference between ionic and covalent bonds?

• A. Ionic bonds occur only between nonmetals, while covalent bonds occur only between metals.
• B. Ionic bonds are generally weaker than covalent bonds.
• C. Ionic bonds result in the formation of molecules, while covalent bonds result in the formation of crystals.
• D. Ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, while covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of ionic and covalent bonds: Ionic bonds form when electrons are transferred from one atom to another, typically between a metal and a nonmetal, resulting in oppositely charged ions that attract each other.
2. Recognize that covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms, usually between nonmetals, to achieve stable electron configurations.
3. Evaluate the incorrect statements: Ionic bonds do not occur only between nonmetals; they usually form between metals and nonmetals. Also, ionic bonds are generally stronger due to electrostatic attraction, and ionic compounds form crystal lattices rather than discrete molecules.
4. Note that covalent bonds result in the formation of molecules, which are distinct groups of atoms bonded together, unlike the extended crystal structure of ionic compounds.
5. Conclude that the key difference is that ionic bonds involve electron transfer creating ions, while covalent bonds involve electron sharing between atoms.