What occurs when ionic compounds are formed?

Correct option is D

When ionic compounds are formed, redox reactions occur. These reactions involve the transfer of electrons between atoms:
1. Oxidation: One atom loses electrons, becoming a positively charged ion (cation).
2. Reduction: Another atom gains those electrons, becoming a negatively charged ion (anion).
This electron transfer leads to the electrostatic attraction between the oppositely charged ions, which forms an ionic bond. For example:
· In sodium chloride (NaCl):
· Sodium (NaNaNa) loses an electron (oxidation) to form Na+Na^+Na+.
· Chlorine (ClClCl) gains an electron (reduction) to form Cl−Cl^-Cl−.
· The resulting Na+Na^+Na+ and Cl−Cl^-Cl− ions combine to form the ionic compound NaCl.
Explanation of Other Options: · (a) Oxidation reactions: While oxidation occurs during ionic bond formation, it is only one part of the redox process.
· (b) Exergonic reactions: Exergonic reactions release energy, which may accompany ionic compound formation, but they do not describe the fundamental process.
· (c) Helix Beta pleated reactions: This is unrelated; it pertains to protein secondary structures, not ionic bonding.
Correct Answer: (d) Redox reactions Information Booster: 1. Ionic Bond Formation: Involves complete transfer of electrons from a metal to a nonmetal.
2. Examples: Sodium chloride (NaClNaClNaCl), magnesium oxide (MgOMgOMgO), and potassium bromide (KBrKBrKBr).
3. Redox Reactions: A key concept in chemistry, fundamental to processes like corrosion, combustion, and metabolism.