OmniLab Guided chemistry

For chemistry students · 4 minute read

Why do sodium and chlorine form an ionic bond?

Sodium transfers an electron to chlorine, creating Na⁺ and Cl⁻. Their opposite charges attract, forming an ionic lattice.

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Electron transfer model

Na → Na⁺ + e⁻ | Cl + e⁻ → Cl⁻

In the full elemental reaction, one Cl₂ molecule accepts two electrons from two sodium atoms.

Worked explanation

From neutral atoms to an ionic lattice

Use this as a study aid, then compare it with your course materials.

  1. 01

    Sodium loses one electron

    A neutral sodium atom becomes Na⁺ when it gives up its outer electron.

  2. 02

    Chlorine gains that electron

    A chlorine atom becomes Cl⁻ after accepting one electron, giving the two ions opposite charges.

  3. 03

    Attraction builds the solid

    Electrostatic attraction holds many Na⁺ and Cl⁻ ions in a repeating three-dimensional sodium chloride lattice.

In the virtual lab

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