Which of the following best describes ionic bonding?

Ionic bonding is best described as the transfer of electrons resulting in charged ions. In this type of bonding, one atom (usually a metal) donates one or more of its electrons to another atom (usually a non-metal), leading to the formation of positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions). This transfer creates an electrostatic attraction between the oppositely charged ions, which results in the formation of an ionic compound.

This process is driven by the tendency of atoms to achieve a stable electronic configuration, often resembling that of noble gases.

While other types of bonding, such as covalent bonding, involve the sharing of electrons between atoms, ionic bonding is specifically characterized by this electron transfer and the resulting ionic charges. This fundamental understanding is crucial in distinguishing ionic bonds from other types of chemical interactions.

In summary, this explanation aligns with the nature of ionic bonds, emphasizing the unique process of electron transfer that leads to ionic charge formation and the resulting attraction between the ions.