How does an ionic bond differ from a covalent bond?

Ionic bonds transfer electrons and covalent bonds share electrons.

Explanation:

Ionic bonds tend to transfer electrons completely. Take NaCl for example.

Cl has 7 valence electrons.

Na has 1 valence electron.

To stabilize themselves, either with a full 8 shells or full outer shell, Cl wants 1 electron and Na wants to lose 1 electron. So when NaCl forms, Na donates its electron to Cl.

In a covalent bond, the electrons are shared. Water can be used as an example. The electrons in water usually are around the oxygen, but sometimes it is around the hydrogens.

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