KOH is an ionic compound because it is formed by two ions, K+ and OH–. 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, K is a metal and OH is a group of nonmetals. So when they combine, it forms an ionic compound.
Well, now you have got to know that KOH is an ionic compound, but let me explain the in-depth reason why KOH is an ionic compound.
If you are a visual learner like me, then here is a short one minute video for you.
Why is KOH 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 KOH, the K atom is a metal and the OH is a group of nonmetals.
Hence the bond between them is an ionic bond.
But how does the ionic bond form between K and OH?
When K and OH combine with each other, the electron transfer takes place from K to OH.
In other words, K loses 1 electron and OH gains 1 electron.
Due to this, the Potassium becomes a positive ion K+ and OH becomes a negative ion OH–.
Now because of the positive charge of Potassium ion and negative charge of OH ion, the electrostatic force of attraction is produced between them.
This electrostatic force between K ion and OH ion results in an ionic bond between them.
Hence, KOH is an ionic compound.
I hope you have understood the reason why KOH is an ionic compound.
Check out other compounds to see whether they are ionic or covalent;
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Jay is an educator and has helped more than 100,000 students in their studies by providing simple and easy explanations on different science-related topics. With a desire to make learning accessible for everyone, he founded Knords Learning, an online learning platform that provides students with easily understandable explanations.
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