What is an ionic bond?

An ionic bond forms between metals and non-metals when one atom donates electrons and another accepts them. This creates positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions) that attract each other electrostatically. For example, sodium (Na) loses one electron to become Na⁺, while chlorine (Cl) gains one to become Cl⁻, forming NaCl (table salt). Ionic compounds usually form crystal lattices, have high melting points, and conduct electricity when dissolved in water or molten. The strength of the bond depends on the charges and sizes of the involved ions.