Question

What are directional and non – directional bonding?

Answer 1

Hint : Directionality depends upon the arrangement of bonds inside a molecule structure. The directionality of bonds also explains the definite structure of molecules in a compound. It can be determined by observing the structure of a molecule. Here, we will try to give a theoretical explanation of the two given terms.

Complete Step By Step Answer:
Directional bonds are the one where a specific oriental direction of atoms is necessary. It is the distortion of electron density towards a particular atom in a given bond. All the covalent bonds are directional bonds in nature. Covalent bonds are formed by the sharing of electrons. Here, a specific orientation between the two atoms or molecules is preferred. This results in molecules having a definite shape. Hence, the bonds formed are needed to be in a particular direction.
In non – directional bonding, as the name suggests, the direction of bonding does not matter. Ionic bonds are non – directional bonds. Since ionic bonds are the electrostatic force between the two opposite charges or atoms/ions. Hence, it does not matter what the direction of the ions are.
Due to the electrostatic nature of non – directional bonds, they are usually stronger than most directional bonds.

Note :
This can also be explained as, the electric fields associated with ions are non – directional so the bonding is also non – directional. On the other hand, in covalent bonds, charge is distributed in the axial between $$\sigma$$ and $$\pi$$ bonds and hence the bonding is directional. Directional bonds are interpreted differently when observed from different sides while non – directional bonds look the same when observed from any side.