Ionic Bonds vs Covalent Bonds

Course:
Chemistry

Ionic Bonds and Covalent bonds are both considered STRONG intramolecular forces. But do you know which is stronger? You'd think this was a straightforward question. But there's more to it! Each of these bonds has a range of strengths. In this video, we'll discuss how the strength of Ionic Bonds and Covalent bonds are measured so you can compare two chemical bonds.

Ionic bonds and covalent bonds are both considered strong intramolecular forces (internal bonds that hold individual compounds and molecules together). But which is stronger? The truth is, both of these bonds come in a range of strengths, so there is not one simple answer.

The following considerations are covered in this video:

  • measuring the strength of a bond by how hard it is to break it
  • ionic bond measured by lattice energy
  • covalent bond strength measured by bond enthalpy
  • the typical range of strengths of ionic bonds and covalent bonds

Further details about these strong intramolecular forces can be found in their own videos: Ionic Bonds and Covalent Bonds. Weaker intermolecular forces are discussed separately.

Video: Ionic Bonds vs Covalent Bonds

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