Why is ionic bonding considered both inter- and intramolecular bonding?

• A. Because ionic bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms in different molecules.
• B. Because ionic bonds form between atoms within a molecule and also between separate ions in a crystal lattice.
• C. Because ionic bonds are weaker than covalent bonds and can easily break between molecules.
• D. Because ionic bonds only occur within a single molecule, not between molecules.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between intramolecular and intermolecular bonding: Intramolecular bonds hold atoms together within a molecule, while intermolecular bonds occur between separate molecules or ions.
2. Recognize that ionic bonds form due to the electrostatic attraction between positively and negatively charged ions, which can be part of the same compound or extend throughout a crystal lattice.
3. Note that in ionic compounds, the bonding is not limited to discrete molecules but extends in a repeating pattern, creating a lattice structure where ions are held together both within the 'molecule' (intramolecular) and between neighboring ions (intermolecular).
4. Therefore, ionic bonding is considered both intramolecular (within the formula unit of the compound) and intermolecular (between ions in the crystal lattice), unlike covalent bonds which are typically only intramolecular.
5. Summarize that the unique nature of ionic bonding arises from the strong electrostatic forces that operate both inside the compound's formula unit and throughout the extended lattice, explaining why it is classified as both inter- and intramolecular bonding.