Question

Is octet rule only for covalent compounds which they involve non-metallic atoms or can it work for ionic compounds too?

Answer 1

main-group elements tend to combine in such a way that each atom has eight electrons in its valence shell, giving it the same electronic configuration as a noble gas.

This is the definition for octet rule

Answer 2

In my opinion it is only for covalent bonding because they share electrons. However, in ionic compounds, electrons are NOT shared! Instead transferred. Am I right? Explain

Answer 3

the octet rule generally works for ionic compounds as well, since the movement of electrons still fills or empties a valence shell.

If you consider a sodium atom losing its valence electron to form a sodium \(ion\), then the octet rule still applies because the \(2s^22p^6\) subshell that's underneath is now a full valence shell with 8 electrons.

A chlorine atom that gains an electron still obeys the octet rule, so in general the octet rule works for both covalent and ionic bonding. Usually we only use it for covalent bonding, though

Answer 4

Thank you!