Is Titanium Dioxide Toxic-Is Titanium Dioxide An Ionic Compound

Is Titanium Dioxide An Ionic Compound

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is not an ionic compound; it is a covalent compound. In titanium dioxide, titanium is in the +4 oxidation state, and each oxygen atom is in the -2 oxidation state. The compound consists of a network of titanium and oxygen atoms where the bonds between them are covalent, meaning that the electrons are shared between the atoms rather than transferred, which would be the case in an ionic compound.

Titanium dioxide is a white pigment used in many products, including paints, coatings, plastics, paper, and food. It is known for its high refractive index, which makes it an excellent opacifier (it scatters light and makes the substance it is mixed with more opaque).