Skip to main content

Types of Chemical Bonds

Chemical bonds are the forces that hold atoms together in compounds. They determine the structure, stability, and properties of substances. Understanding the different types of chemical bonds is fundamental to chemistry.

Ionic Bonds​

  • Formed when electrons are transferred from one atom (usually a metal) to another (usually a nonmetal).
  • Results in cations and anions held together by electrostatic attraction.
  • Example: Sodium chloride (NaCl)

Covalent Bonds​

  • Formed when atoms share electrons to achieve full valence shells.
  • Can be single, double, or triple bonds depending on the number of shared electron pairs.
  • Example: Water (H₂O), Carbon dioxide (CO₂)

Metallic Bonds​

  • Found in metals, where delocalized electrons move freely among positively charged metal ions.
  • Explains properties like conductivity, malleability, and ductility.
  • Example: Copper (Cu), Aluminum (Al)

Polar vs Nonpolar Covalent Bonds​

  • Nonpolar: Electrons are shared equally; occurs between identical or similar electronegativity atoms.
  • Polar: Electrons are shared unequally; one atom attracts electrons more strongly.

Importance of Bond Types​

  • Determines physical properties: melting point, boiling point, hardness.
  • Explains chemical reactivity and molecular geometry.
  • Provides the foundation for understanding ionic compounds, molecules, and metallic materials.

Have Questions?​

If you have any questions, or are looking for more resources, you can join our Discord Server