Question

Unlike ionic bonds, covalent bonds involve the

Answer 1

Ionic bonds involve the gaining or losing of electrons, giving the atoms a charge. The charge can be positive, called an cation, when it losing electrons. Also, it could be negative, called an anion, when it gains an electron. Ionic bonds are oppositely charged. Which means that one must be positive and the other negative.
Unlike a ionic bond, a covalent bond involve the sharing of electrons, giving it a neutral charge. Their are two kinds of covalent bonds: polar and non polar.

Answer 2

Sharing of electrons. Ionic bonds involve giving and taking of electrons. Another difference is that ionic bonds are between metals and nonmetals. Covalent bonds are for nonmetals only. Use whatever is suitable.