EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -If we combine two Al3+ ions and three O2-ions, and use subscripts to indicate the number of each ion in the formula, we obtain Al2O3 as the empirical formula. The easiest method to determine the formula for an ionic compound, when given the component ions, is to use the criss-cross method.

Detailed explanation-2: -Al2O3 compound has a 120-degree bond angle. It has an Al central atom connected with two O atoms forming an ionic bond due to the loss of all 3 electrons. Thus it has an O – Al – O bond angle of 120 degrees within them.

Detailed explanation-3: -Aluminium oxide (Al2O3) is ionic but does show some covalent character.

Detailed explanation-4: -The compound is ionic in nature, because it contains a metal (aluminum) and a non-metal (oxygen). Ionic compounds occur between metals and non-metals and involve the exchange of electrons between the two atoms. The metal always donates electrons to the non-metal to form the ionic bond.