Ionic compounds

Ionic bonds form when a metal reacts with a non-metal. Metals form positive ions, while non-metals form negative ions. Ionic bonds are the electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Melting points and boiling points

Ionic bonds are very strong so a lot of energy is needed to break them. Ionic compounds contain many of these strong bonds so they have high melting and boiling points.

Conduction of electricity

Ionic compounds conduct electricity when they are dissolved in water or when they are melted. This is because their ions are free to move and carry the current. However, ionic compounds do not conduct electricity when they are solid. This is because their ions cannot move around in their lattice structure.