Ionic bond

Definition

An ionic bond is a type of chemical bond formed through the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. In organic chemistry, this bond typically occurs when an electron is transferred from one atom (usually a metal) to another (usually a nonmetal), resulting in the formation of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions.

Related terms

Cation:

A positively charged ion that is created when an atom loses one or more electrons.

Anion:

A negatively charged ion formed when an atom gains one or more electrons.

Electrostatic Attraction: The force that draws particles with opposite charges (cations and anions) towards each other to form an ionic bond