Ionic bonds happen when atoms either gain or lose tiny particles called electrons. This process creates what we call ions. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Cations: These are ions with a positive charge. They form when an atom loses one or more electrons. For example, sodium (Na) can lose an electron, and this changes it to .
Anions: These are ions with a negative charge. They form when an atom gains one or more electrons. Take chlorine (Cl) as an example; it gains an electron, becoming .
When these positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions) come together, they attract each other. This attraction is what we call an ionic bond, and it helps keep the compound strong and stable!
Ionic bonds happen when atoms either gain or lose tiny particles called electrons. This process creates what we call ions. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Cations: These are ions with a positive charge. They form when an atom loses one or more electrons. For example, sodium (Na) can lose an electron, and this changes it to .
Anions: These are ions with a negative charge. They form when an atom gains one or more electrons. Take chlorine (Cl) as an example; it gains an electron, becoming .
When these positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions) come together, they attract each other. This attraction is what we call an ionic bond, and it helps keep the compound strong and stable!