Is MgSO4 Ionic or Covalent? (And Why?)

MgSO₄ (Magnesium sulfate) is an ionic compound because it is formed by two ions, Mg²⁺ 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, Mg 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 MgSO₄ is an ionic compound, but let me explain the in-depth reason why MgSO₄ is an ionic compound.

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

Why is MgSO₄ 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 MgSO₄, the Mg 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 Mg and SO₄?

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

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

Due to this, the Magnesium becomes a positive ion (Mg²⁺) and SO₄ becomes a negative ion (SO₄)^2-.

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

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

Hence, MgSO₄ is an ionic compound.

I hope you have understood the reason why MgSO₄ is an ionic compound.

Check out other compounds to see whether they are ionic or covalent;
Is LiCl Ionic or Covalent?
Is H2 Ionic or Covalent?
Is CF4 Ionic or Covalent?
Is MgF2 Ionic or Covalent?
Is CBr4 Ionic or Covalent?