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

• A. A covalent bond is weaker than an ionic bond because it does not involve any electrons.
• B. A covalent bond results in the formation of ions, while an ionic bond does not.
• C. A covalent bond involves the sharing of electrons between atoms, while an ionic bond involves the transfer of electrons from one atom to another.
• D. A covalent bond forms only between metals, while an ionic bond forms only between nonmetals.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the nature of covalent bonds. Covalent bonds form when two atoms share one or more pairs of electrons to achieve a full outer shell, resulting in a stable molecule.
2. Step 2: Understand the nature of ionic bonds. Ionic bonds form when one atom transfers one or more electrons to another atom, creating positively and negatively charged ions that attract each other due to electrostatic forces.
3. Step 3: Compare the electron behavior in both bonds. In covalent bonding, electrons are shared between atoms, whereas in ionic bonding, electrons are completely transferred from one atom to another.
4. Step 4: Recognize the types of elements involved. Covalent bonds typically form between nonmetal atoms, while ionic bonds usually form between metals and nonmetals.
5. Step 5: Use this understanding to evaluate the given options and identify the correct description of the difference between covalent and ionic bonds.