Chemistry · Common misconception
Electron transfer is not the ionic bond itself
Separate the formation of ions from the attraction that holds an ionic lattice together.
The short answer
Electron transfer can explain how positive and negative ions form. An ionic bond is the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. In a solid ionic compound, these attractions extend through a giant lattice.
Conceptual illustration. Colours distinguish parts of the model.
Where the confusion starts
Drawing one sodium atom passing an electron to one chlorine atom does not show the full solid. Sodium chloride is not made of separate NaCl molecules. Its formula gives the simplest whole-number ratio of the ions.
WORK IT THROUGH
Compare NaCl and MgCl₂.
- Na⁺ and Cl⁻ have charges that balance in a 1:1 ratio.
- Mg²⁺ needs two Cl⁻ ions to balance its +2 charge, so the ratio is 1:2.
- In either solid, each ion is attracted to surrounding oppositely charged ions. The lattice model explains why isolated pairs are incomplete pictures.
CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Why is the formula of magnesium oxide MgO rather than Mg₂O₂?
Make a prediction or write an answer before opening the explanation.
Reveal the explanation
Mg²⁺ and O²⁻ balance in a 1:1 ratio. The formula expresses that simplest ratio, rather than describing a separate molecule.
SEE IT. CHANGE IT. EXPLAIN IT.
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