MgSO4 (Magnesium sulfate) is an ionic compound because it is formed by two ions, Mg2+ and SO42-. 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?
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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