Ionic bonding in magnesium oxide

1 mark · Easy

What type of force holds the magnesium ions and oxide ions together in magnesium oxide?

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Electrostatic attraction (between oppositely charged ions)

Also accept: Ionic bond; Electrostatic force; Electrostatic forces between oppositely charged ions

Common mistakes: Covalent bond; Metallic bond

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · States electrostatic attraction (electrostatic force) or ionic bond as the force holding ions together.

Worked solution

The force holding the ions together in magnesium oxide is electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions (Mg^{2+} and O^{2-}).