Question

I need help on how to tell if the chemical formula is forming an ionic bond or covalent bond? For example C2H4, BaCl4???

Answer 1

First of all, a covalent bond happens when electrons are 'shared'. This bond specifically occurs between two non metals. For example C2H4, there are carbon and hydrogen. Both are non metals so, thus giving C2H4, So basically when you're given a compound just check if they are metals or non metals.
On the other hand, an ionic bond happens when the valence electrons are being transferred. For example BaCl2, Ba is a metal while Cl is a non metal so, ionic bond takes place. However, i don't know about BaCl4, never heard of it.

Answer 2

P.s my drawing is not the best but i hope you understand it. There is a double bond between the carbon atoms : C=C

Answer 3

ohh ok so it's covalent if its a metal and a non-metal?

Answer 4

no that's ionic, covalent happens between non metal only.

Answer 5

ohh alright that makes more sense!! thank you so much!:) oh & one more thing...how do you know when to use the cross over method?

Answer 6

when you have a metal and a non metal i'm guessing. I'm not really familiar with the cross over method.

Answer 7

alright thank you for taking your time to explain this to me :)

Answer 8

your welcome! I'm glad i could help ^_^