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Determine Bond Types and Naming Ionic & Covalent Formulas

Author: Tamara Ellsworth

Bonding: Ionic vs. Covalent

In this video, you will be tutored on the differences of ionic and covalent bonds, like how you mathematically calculate which type of bond, the different properties and how to name and write the formulas of each.

Follow along in your notes from class or at the bottom of this presentation. Pause the video to take as much time as needed. Pause it to create more wait-time to answer questions before I move on. One of the best ways to learn is to quiz yourself as you go along.

Source: Prentce Hall -- Chemistry: Connections to Our Changing World

AVOID ERRORS: The most common errors students make.

These are some of the most common errors students make with formula writing:

  1. They don't identify whether the formula is a molecule (covalent) or an ionic compound.
    • Always look at the first Element in a Formula.  Ask yourself does it start with a metal or a nonmetal?  If it starts with a nonmetal it is covalent.  If it starts with a metal it is ionic. Name accordingly.
  2. In ionic compounds: They don't simplify the subscripts of the numbers that move down and switch.
  3. In ionic compounds: They try to simplify the subscripts on the elements of the polyatomic ion.  The ion should look the same in the formula as it does on the Polyatomic Ion sheet.
  4. In covalent molecules: They simplify or reduce the subscripts.  Never reduce in a molecule. 

Source: Tamara Ellsworth

PPT: Chapter 7 Section 2--Bonds and IUPAC Naming