Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What is an ionic compound?

1. A compound formed by two non-metals

2. A compound formed by combining an anion and a cation

3. A pure element that is charged

4. A compound held together by covalent bonds

The correct answer is: A compound formed by combining an anion and a cation

An ionic compound is specifically defined as a compound that results from the combination of an anion (negatively charged ion) and a cation (positively charged ion). This relationship arises from the transfer of electrons, where one atom donates electrons to another, leading to the formation of ions. The electrostatic attraction between these opposite charges holds the ions together in a crystalline structure, characterized by elevated melting and boiling points, as well as electrical conductivity when dissolved in water or melted. The identification of ionic compounds is key in understanding chemical bonding. Typically, ionic compounds are formed between metals and non-metals, where the metal tends to lose electrons and the non-metal tends to gain them. This fundamental concept in chemistry underlines the role of ionic bonds in forming stable compounds with distinct properties. The other options do not accurately capture this definition. Compounds formed by two non-metals primarily involve covalent bonding rather than ionic bonding. A pure element that is charged does not constitute a compound; instead, it refers to an individual ion. Lastly, a compound held together by covalent bonds does not qualify as an ionic compound, as covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons rather than the transfer and attraction of charged particles.