Is CaSO4 Ionic or Covalent? (And Why?)

CaSO₄ is an ionic compound because it is formed by two ions, Ca²⁺ and SO₄^2-. These positive and negative ions produce the force of attraction between them which results in an ionic bond.
Moreover when the metal combines with nonmetal, it usually forms an ionic compound. Here, Ca is a metal and SO₄ is a group of nonmetals. So when they combine, it forms an ionic compound.

Well, now you have got to know that CaSO₄ is an ionic compound, but let me explain the in-depth reason why CaSO₄ is an ionic compound.

If you are a visual learner like me, then here is a short one minute video for you.

Why is CaSO₄ an ionic compound?

As mentioned above, you can simply remember that when the metal combines with nonmetal, the bond between them is an ionic bond.

Here in CaSO₄, the Ca atom is a metal and the SO₄ is a group of nonmetals.

Hence the bond between them is an ionic bond.

But how does the ionic bond form between Ca and SO₄?

When Ca and SO₄ combine with each other, the electron transfer takes place from Ca to SO₄.

In other words, Ca loses 2 electrons and the SO₄ gains 2 electrons.

Due to this, the Calcium becomes a positive ion (Ca²⁺) and SO₄ becomes a negative ion (SO₄)^2-.

Now because of the positive charge of Calcium ion and negative charge of SO₄ ion, the electrostatic force of attraction is produced between them.

This electrostatic force between Ca ion and SO₄ ion results in an ionic bond between them.

Hence, CaSO₄ is an ionic compound.

I hope you have understood the reason why CaSO₄ is an ionic compound.

Check out other compounds to see whether they are ionic or covalent;
Is Sodium iodide (NaI) Ionic or Covalent?
Is CsF Ionic or Covalent?
Is KF Ionic or Covalent?
Is KOH Ionic or Covalent?
Is PF3 Ionic or Covalent?