When a metal meets a non-metal, electrons move from one to the other. In this course we see how that makes an ionic compound, what its properties are, and how metals are got from the ores that are dug out of the ground.
3 lessons, about 1 h 15 min3 simulations10 problems6 practice questionsPython in every lesson
A metal atom loses electrons to make a positive ion, and a non-metal atom gains them to make a negative ion. The attraction between the ions is an ionic bond. The ions have the stable arrangement of a noble gas.
An ionic compound is a crystal lattice, a regular pattern of positive and negative ions in which each ion is surrounded by ions of the opposite kind. Ionic compounds are hard but brittle solids with high melting and boiling points, because the attraction between the ions is strong. Most dissolve in water and not in oils. They do not conduct electricity as solids, because the ions cannot move, but they conduct when melted or dissolved, when the ions are free. Their current is carried by ions and not by electrons.
Minerals hold metals, and an ore is a mineral from which a metal can be got at a profit. Reactive metals are got by electrolysis, medium metals by reducing the oxide with carbon after roasting or calcination, and the least reactive by heating. Copper is refined by electrolysis.
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