The electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions constitutes a fundamental type of chemical bond. This interaction arises from a process involving the transfer of valence electrons between atoms. One atom donates electrons, resulting in a positively charged ion, while another atom accepts these electrons, becoming a negatively charged ion. A common example is the formation of sodium chloride (NaCl), where sodium (Na) loses an electron to become a positive ion and chlorine (Cl) gains that electron to become a negative ion.
This interaction is crucial for the formation of a vast array of chemical compounds and materials. The resulting compounds exhibit characteristic properties such as high melting points, brittleness, and the ability to conduct electricity when dissolved in polar solvents. Historically, understanding the nature of this attraction has been essential for advancements in chemistry, materials science, and numerous industrial processes. It allows the manipulation of matter at the atomic level to create substances with desired properties.
