Final answer:
An ionic bond between a metal and a nonmetal involves the transfer of valence electrons from the metal to the nonmetal, forming cations and anions. Examples include lithium fluoride (LiF) and magnesium oxide (MgO), where the electrostatic attraction between ions creates a stable ionic compound.
Step-by-step explanation:
An ionic bond is a chemical bond characterized by the transfer of valence electrons from a metal to a nonmetal. During this process, the metal atom becomes a positively charged ion, or a cation, while the nonmetal atom becomes a negatively charged ion, or an anion. This results in an ionic compound that is typically solid and crystalline in nature, with high melting and boiling points.
For instance, lithium (Li), a metal, can donate an electron to fluorine (F), a nonmetal, resulting in the formation of lithium fluoride (LiF). Similarly, magnesium (Mg) can donate two electrons to oxygen (O) to form magnesium oxide (MgO), a stable ionic compound with strong electrostatic attraction between the ions.
The electrostatic forces hold these oppositely charged ions together in a crystal lattice structure, and such compounds can conduct electricity when dissolved in water or melted. Ionic compounds are also less reactive compared to their individual elements, giving rise to stable and less reactive substances.