Covalent and Ionic Compounds: Differences

Covalent and ionic compounds are two types of chemical compounds. They differ in their bonding, physical properties, and chemical properties. Here are the differences between covalent and ionic compounds.

Bonding
Covalent compounds are formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms, whereas ionic compounds are formed by the transfer of electrons from one atom to another. In covalent bonding, atoms share electrons to complete their valence shells. In ionic bonding, one atom gains an electron to become a negatively charged ion, and the other atom loses an electron to become a positively charged ion.

Physical Properties
Covalent compounds usually have low melting and boiling points, are not soluble in water, and have low electrical conductivity. Ionic compounds usually have high melting and boiling points, are usually soluble in water, and have high electrical conductivity.

Chemical Properties
Covalent compounds usually have low reactivity and are not very reactive with acids or bases. Ionic compounds are usually highly reactive with acids and bases and can undergo chemical reactions easily.

Examples
Covalent compounds include H2O (water), CO2 (carbon dioxide), and CH4 (methane). Ionic compounds include NaCl (sodium chloride), MgO (magnesium oxide), and CaCO3 (calcium carbonate).

Conclusion
In summary, covalent compounds are formed by the sharing of electrons and have low melting and boiling points, low solubility in water, and low electrical conductivity. Ionic compounds are formed by the transfer of electrons and have high melting and boiling points, high solubility in water, and high electrical conductivity.