👉 Ions are charged particles formed when atoms gain or lose electrons, resulting in an imbalance of protons and electrons that creates a net electric charge. This charge can be positive (cation) if an atom loses electrons, becoming positively charged, or negative (anion) if it gains electrons. The bonds ions form with other atoms or ions are primarily ionic bonds, which occur through the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. In an ionic bond, the cation (positively charged ion) is attracted to the anion (negatively charged ion), and this attraction overcomes the repulsion between the like charges, leading to a stable compound. These bonds are typically strong and result in high melting and boiling points, making ionic compounds solid at room temperature and often soluble in water.
