Lesson 3.3 - Ionic Compounds

Lattices

An ionic compound is a giant structure of ions.

We call this structure a lattice.

Forces

Ionic compounds are held together by very strong electrostatic forces.

These forces act between oppositely charged ions.

They act in all directions.

Representing ionic compounds

We can represent ionic compounds in many ways.

For example, we can use a:

• Ball and stick diagram

• Dot and cross diagram

• 2D diagram

• 3D diagram

Each have benefits and limitations.