A-Level Chemistry: Bonding & Structure Revision

Bonding & Structure is a core part of A-Level Chemistry. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.

Key concepts

Ionic bondingElectrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions in a giant lattice.

Covalent bondingA shared pair of electrons between non-metal atoms.

Metallic bondingAttraction between metal ions and delocalised electrons.

Simple molecularSmall molecules with weak intermolecular forces; low melting points.

Giant structuresGiant ionic, covalent or metallic lattices with high melting points.

Intermolecular forcesWeak forces between molecules that affect melting and boiling points.

ElectronegativityAn atom's ability to attract a bonding pair of electrons.

Enthalpy changeHeat energy change at constant pressure; found using Hess's law and bond enthalpies.

Common mistakes to avoid

Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:

When water boils, what is broken?✗ The covalent bonds between hydrogen and oxygen atoms are broken when water boils. ✓ Intermolecular forces (hydrogen bonds) between water molecules are broken — the O-H covalent bonds stay intact.

Where is almost all the mass of an atom located?✗ Electrons contribute significantly to the mass of an atom. ✓ In the nucleus, made up of protons and neutrons.

Practise Bonding & Structure — free games

Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:

▶ Two Truths, One Lie ▶ Reveal Race ▶ Connections Grid ▶ Falling Words ▶ Word Web

See all 17 games in the Subjects Arcade →

Bonding & Structure

Key concepts

Common mistakes to avoid

Practise Bonding & Structure — free games

More A-Level Chemistry topics