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

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the nature of ionic bonds. Ionic bonds form when one atom transfers one or more electrons to another atom, resulting in positively and negatively charged ions that attract each other.
2. Step 2: Understand the nature of covalent bonds. Covalent bonds form when two atoms share one or more pairs of electrons to achieve a full outer electron shell.
3. Step 3: Compare the types of elements involved. Ionic bonds typically form between metals and nonmetals due to their difference in electronegativity, while covalent bonds usually form between nonmetals.
4. Step 4: Consider the structural outcomes. Ionic bonding often leads to the formation of crystalline solids (ionic crystals), whereas covalent bonding leads to the formation of discrete molecules or network covalent solids.
5. Step 5: Evaluate the strength and characteristics of the bonds. While bond strength can vary, the key conceptual difference lies in electron transfer (ionic) versus electron sharing (covalent), which is fundamental to distinguishing these bond types.