Ions and Ionic Bonding

An ion is an atom or group of atoms with a positive or negative charge. It is formed when an atom either gains or loses an electron. Metals find it easier to lose electrons and so are left , while non-metals find it easier to gain electrons making them .

Ionic bonds are formed by the transfer of electrons to form positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions). These ions are then strongly to each other by electrostatic forces.

They form giant ioinic structures and form crystals. Because the like (eg positive to positive) ions each other, the structure is regular and ordered which means their crystals are regularly shaped as well.

The strong bonds means the crystals have high melting and boiling points. When molten or in solution, the ions are free to move and so have the ability to conduct an electric current.