What are the two main types of chemical bonds discussed?

• A. Ionic and Covalent
• B. Hydrogen and Covalent
• C. Metallic and Covalent
• D. Ionic and Metallic

Answer: (A)

The essential concept here is the two fundamental ways atoms stick together: ionic and covalent bonds. Ionic bonds form when one atom transfers electrons to another, creating oppositely charged ions that are held together by electrostatic attraction. This typically happens between metals and nonmetals and often leads to crystalline solids with high melting points that dissolve in water and conduct electricity when dissolved or melted. Covalent bonds arise when atoms share electrons to fill their outer electron shells, which is common between nonmetals and produces discrete molecules with a wide range of properties. Other types of interactions, like hydrogen bonds or metallic bonds, exist, but the primary pair discussed in many introductory contexts are ionic and covalent.