Hydrides are chemical compounds formed when hydrogen bonds with another element. They can be classified into different types, such as ionic, covalent, and metallic hydrides, depending on the nature of the bond. Ionic hydrides typically form with alkali metals, while covalent hydrides are common with nonmetals like carbon and oxygen. These compounds often exhibit unique properties, such as varying boiling and melting points. Some hydrides, like water (H₂O), are essential for life, while others, like ammonia (NH₃), play crucial roles in industrial processes. Understanding hydrides is important in fields like chemistry and materials science.