Ions are atoms or molecules that have an unequal number of protons and electrons, resulting in a net electrical charge. When ions come into close proximity to each other, they can be attracted to or repelled by each other due to electrostatic forces.
There are two main types of electrostatic forces that can hold ions together:
1. Ionic bonds: These are electrostatic forces of attraction between positively charged metal ions and negatively charged non-metal ions. This type of bond typically forms between metal and non-metal ions that have a large difference in electronegativity, resulting in a transfer of electrons from the metal atom to the non-metal atom. The resulting oppositely charged ions are then held together by strong electrostatic forces, forming a stable ionic compound.
2. Electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions: This type of electrostatic attraction can occur between any two ions that have opposite charges, regardless of whether they are metals or non-metals. For example, when a positive ion (cation) and a negative ion (anion) are brought close together, they can be attracted to each other by electrostatic forces. The strength of the attraction depends on the charges of the ions and the distance between them.
Overall, the forces that hold ions together are typically electrostatic in nature and are a result of the attraction between opposite charges.