Ionic bonds are typically stronger than covalent bonds due to the nature of their electron interactions, which involve the transfer of electrons and result in robust electrostatic attractions.

Ionic bonding occurs when one atom completely transfers one or more of its electrons to another atom. This process leads to the formation of ions—charged entities that can be either individual atoms or groups of atoms. The atom that loses electrons becomes a positively charged ion, known as a cation, while the atom that gains electrons becomes a negatively charged ion, called an anion. The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions gives rise to a strong ionic bond.

In contrast, covalent bonding involves the sharing of electrons between atoms. This sharing enables the atoms to achieve a stable electron configuration. However, the electrostatic attraction in a covalent bond, which occurs between the positively charged nuclei of the atoms and the shared pair of electrons, is generally weaker than that found in ionic bonds.

The strength of an ionic bond is influenced by the size and charge of the ions involved. Smaller ions, as well as ions with higher charges, tend to form stronger ionic bonds. This is because smaller ions can approach each other more closely, enhancing the strength of the electrostatic attraction.

Conversely, the strength of a covalent bond is determined by the extent of overlap between the atomic orbitals of the bonded atoms. A greater overlap results in a stronger covalent bond. Nonetheless, even with maximal overlap, the strength of a covalent bond is usually less than that of an ionic bond due to the inherently weaker electrostatic attractions.

It is crucial to recognize that while ionic bonds are generally stronger, exceptions exist. Some covalent bonds—particularly those involving small atoms with high electronegativities—can be exceptionally strong. A prime example is the bond in a nitrogen molecule ($N_2$), which features a triple covalent bond and is considered one of the strongest chemical bonds known.