Ionic compounds

Definition

Ionic compounds are compounds formed by the transfer of electrons between a metal and a nonmetal. They consist of positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions) held together by electrostatic forces.

Related terms

Cations:

Positively charged ions formed when atoms lose electrons.

Anions:

Negatively charged ions formed when atoms gain electrons.

Electrostatic forces: Forces of attraction between oppositely charged particles.