A process which involves substitution of one ion, either cation or anion , for another of the same charge when a solution containing ions is passed into a molecular network having either acidic or basic substituent groups which can be readily ionized. The ions in the solution attach themselves to the network, replacing the acidic or basic groups. Zeolites , the first ion exchange materials, were used for water softening.
Soil exhibits ion-exchange activity.
This has an important bearing on fertilizer application. A bond that is formed by the transfer of electrons from one atom to another. As a result, the positively charged ion is attracted to the negatively charged ion by coulombic attraction. The strong attractions within ionic solids are responsible for their high melting points . For example, the melting point of the ionic compound sodium chloride, NaCl, is 801 o C. Ionic bonded solids such as NaCl do not conduct electricity.