What is the Difference Between Ionic and Molecular Compounds?

The main difference between ionic and molecular compounds lies in the nature of the bonds that hold their constituent atoms or ions together. Here are the key differences between the two types of compounds:

1. Bonding: Molecular compounds are formed when atoms are joined together by sharing electrons, creating covalent bonds. On the other hand, ionic compounds are formed when electrons are transferred between atoms, resulting in ionic bonds.
2. Elements involved: Ionic compounds are generally formed when a metal and a non-metal combine. Molecular compounds, however, are formed between two non-metals.
3. Physical state: Molecular compounds can be found in any physical state, such as solid, liquid, or gas. Ionic compounds, in contrast, are always solid and crystalline in form.
4. Conductivity: Ionic compounds are good conductors of electricity when dissolved in water or melted. Molecular compounds, on the other hand, are generally poor conductors of electricity.
5. Melting and boiling points: Ionic compounds have high melting and boiling points due to the strong electrostatic forces of attraction between their ions. Molecular compounds, however, have lower melting and boiling points as their atoms are held together by the weaker covalent bonds.

Examples of ionic compounds include sodium chloride (NaCl) and magnesium chloride (MgCl2), which are formed when a metal combines with a non-metal. Examples of molecular compounds include water (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and methane (CH4), which are formed when non-metals combine with each other.

Comparative Table: Ionic vs Molecular Compounds

Here is a table summarizing the differences between ionic and molecular compounds:

To summarize:

• Ionic compounds are formed due to ionic bonding between a metal and a nonmetal or a semi-metal, and they generally exist as solid crystals. They are good conductors of electricity and have high melting and boiling points.
• Molecular compounds are formed due to covalent bonding between two non-metals, and they can exist in any physical state (solid, liquid, or gas). They are poor conductors of electricity and have low melting and boiling points.