Ionic bonding occurs between positive and negative ions, which attract each other and bind together to form ionic compounds. For example, sodium chloride consists of Na+ ions and Cl- ions bound together.
Each ion is surrounded by oppositely charged ions held in place by electrostatic attraction and forming an ionic crystal lattice. The ions in a crystal lattice are very strongly bonded - a high temperature is required to melt the crystal.
There are several ways in which atoms chemically combine together to make compounds. One of these ways is called ionic bonding. Atoms turn into ions when they lose or gain electrons.
Metal ions
In some circumstances metal atoms may lose electrons. The atom then has more protons than electrons and so it will be positively charged, a positive ion.
Example: A magnesium atom may lose two electrons and become a Mg2+ ion.
Non-metal ions
Non-metal atoms may gain electrons and become negatively charged.
Example: An oxygen atom may gain two electrons and become an O2- ion.
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