eli5 Why are Ionic Compounds not considered molecules?

Question

eli5 Why are Ionic Compounds not considered molecules?

In: 2

Answer 1

Tough to “eli5” but the simplest way I could explain it using limited chemistry/physics terms is:

Ions (the pieces that make up ionic compounds) are not bound together as strongly as the atoms that make up molecules are. Ionic compounds often readily separate under the right circumstances without requiring or giving off much energy. Example table salt, an ionic compound (NaCl), separating into free Na+ and Cl- (sodium and chloride ions) in water.

​

edit: fixes typo