Electrovalence

Electrovalence refers to the type of chemical bond formed through the transfer of electrons from one atom to another. This process results in the formation of ions, which are atoms or molecules that carry a net electric charge. Electrovalent bonding is also known as ionic bonding, and it is one of the primary types of chemical bonds that hold compounds together.

Overview

In an electrovalent bond, one atom becomes an anion (a negatively charged ion) by gaining electrons, while the other becomes a cation (a positively charged ion) by losing electrons. The electrostatic attraction between the oppositely charged ions forms the ionic bond. This type of bond is typically formed between metals and nonmetals. Metals, which have few electrons in their outermost shell, tend to lose electrons and form cations. Nonmetals, which have more electrons in their outer shell and are close to completing their valence shell, tend to gain these electrons, thus forming anions.

Characteristics of Electrovalent Compounds

Electrovalent compounds, also known as ionic compounds, have distinct characteristics:

• They usually have high melting points and boiling points due to the strong forces of attraction between the ions.
• They are typically solid at room temperature.
• When dissolved in water or melted, they conduct electricity due to the movement of ions, which are charged particles.
• They tend to be soluble in polar solvents like water but insoluble in non-polar solvents.

Formation of Electrovalent Bonds

The formation of an electrovalent bond can be illustrated by the reaction between sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl). Sodium has one electron in its outer shell, while chlorine has seven electrons in its valence shell. Sodium can donate its one electron to chlorine, allowing both atoms to achieve a stable electronic configuration similar to the nearest noble gas. As a result, sodium becomes a Na+ cation, and chlorine becomes a Cl− anion. The electrostatic attraction between Na+ and Cl− ions forms a strong ionic bond, resulting in the formation of sodium chloride (NaCl), a typical ionic compound.

Examples of Electrovalent Compounds

• Sodium chloride (NaCl) - Common table salt
• Magnesium oxide (MgO) - A white solid used in construction, ceramics, and as a fire retardant
• Calcium chloride (CaCl2) - Used for ice and dust control on roads, and in concrete

Conclusion

Electrovalence plays a crucial role in the formation of ionic compounds, which are essential in various industrial, biological, and environmental processes. Understanding the nature of electrovalent bonds helps in comprehending the chemical and physical properties of a wide range of compounds.

Electrovalence Resources
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