Which of the following best describes the main difference between an ionic bond and a covalent bond?

• A. An ionic bond results in the formation of molecules, while a covalent bond results in the formation of ions.
• B. An ionic bond involves the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, while a covalent bond involves the sharing of electrons between atoms.
• C. An ionic bond is weaker than a covalent bond in all cases.
• D. An ionic bond forms only between nonmetals, while a covalent bond forms only between metals.

Answer: (B)

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, resulting in positively and negatively charged ions that attract each other.
2. Recognize that covalent bonds form when two atoms share one or more pairs of electrons, creating a bond that holds the atoms together in a molecule.
3. Note that ionic bonds typically occur between metals and nonmetals, where the metal loses electrons and the nonmetal gains electrons, while covalent bonds usually form between nonmetal atoms sharing electrons.
4. Evaluate the given options by comparing these fundamental definitions: the key difference lies in electron transfer (ionic) versus electron sharing (covalent).
5. Conclude that the best description is the one stating that an ionic bond involves the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, while a covalent bond involves the sharing of electrons between atoms.