Forming ions for ionic bonding
I can use electron configuration diagrams (and notation) to explain how positive and negative ions are formed for ionic bonding.
Forming ions for ionic bonding
I can use electron configuration diagrams (and notation) to explain how positive and negative ions are formed for ionic bonding.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Atoms are more stable when they have a full outer shell.
- Metal atoms become more stable when they lose the electron(s) in their outer shell, and become positive ions (cations).
- Non–metal atoms become more stable when they gain electrons to fill their outer shell and become negative ions (anions).
- Ions form through the loss or gain of electrons.
- Standard ion notation uses superscript charge values where the charge follows the number (e.g. 2+, not +2).
Keywords
Ion - An atom or molecule that has lost or gained one or more electrons so has a charge.
Cation - A positively charged ion.
Anion - A negatively charged ion.
Dot–and–cross diagram - Used to show how chemical bonds are formed between atoms – the electrons from one atom are shown as dots and the electrons from the other atom are shown as crosses.
Common misconception
Ions are not formed because atoms 'want' or 'need' a full outer electron shell. Pupils often find standard notation difficult and get confused about when to use superscript and subscript.
It is important that pupils understand that atoms do not have 'wants' or 'needs'. Emphasise that the driving force for the formation of atoms is an increase in stability when the outer electron shell is full.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
Loading...
Starter quiz
6 Questions
1+
0
1–
Exit quiz
6 Questions
An atom or molecule that has gained or lost electrons so has a charge.
A positively charged ion.
A negatively charged ion.