What is the ionic bond formation of magnesium chloride?

The ionic bond formation of magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) occurs when magnesium loses two electrons and chlorine atoms each gain one electron. This results in Mg²⁺ and Cl⁻ ions, which combine by electrostatic attraction.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Magnesium (atomic number 12) has electronic configuration 2, 8, 2.
2. It loses two outer electrons to achieve stable configuration, forming Mg²⁺.
3. Chlorine (atomic number 17) has configuration 2, 8, 7.
4. Each chlorine atom gains one electron to become Cl⁻ with stable configuration.
5. Thus, one Mg atom bonds with two Cl atoms forming MgCl₂.

Equation

Mg → Mg²⁺ + 2e⁻
Cl + e⁻ → Cl⁻
Mg²⁺ + 2Cl⁻ → MgCl₂

Magnesium chloride is a crystalline ionic compound with high melting point and solubility in water.