Which statement best describes the difference between covalent and ionic bonding?

• A. Covalent bonding results in the formation of ions, while ionic bonding does not.
• B. Covalent bonding occurs only between metals, while ionic bonding occurs only between nonmetals.
• C. Covalent bonding involves the sharing of electrons between atoms, while ionic bonding involves the transfer of electrons from one atom to another.
• D. Covalent bonding produces crystalline solids, while ionic bonding produces gases.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of covalent bonding: it involves the sharing of electron pairs between atoms, typically between nonmetal atoms, to achieve stable electron configurations.
2. Understand the nature of ionic bonding: it involves the transfer of electrons from one atom (usually a metal) to another atom (usually a nonmetal), resulting in the formation of positively and negatively charged ions that attract each other.
3. Compare the two types of bonding based on electron behavior: covalent bonding shares electrons, while ionic bonding transfers electrons.
4. Recognize that covalent bonding does not typically produce ions, whereas ionic bonding results in ions that form ionic compounds.
5. Evaluate the given statements and identify the one that correctly describes the fundamental difference: covalent bonding involves sharing electrons, ionic bonding involves electron transfer.