4.6 Write the favourable factors for the formation of an ionic bond.


An ionic bond is formed by the transfer of one or more electrons from one atom to another. Hence, the formation of ionic bonds depends upon the ease with which neutral atoms can lose or gain electrons. Bond formation also depends upon the lattice energy of the compound formed.

Hence, favourable factors for ionic bond formation are as follows:

(i) Low ionization enthalpy of the metal atom.

(ii) High electron gain enthalpy eg H of a non-metal atom.

(iii) High lattice energy of the compound formed.