Final answer:
In sodium oxide, an ionic bond is formed between sodium and oxygen atoms, creating a more stable arrangement of electrons.
Step-by-step explanation:
In sodium oxide (Na2O), an ionic bond is formed between sodium (Na) and oxygen (O) atoms.
The sodium atom has one valence electron, while the oxygen atom has six valence electrons. The sodium atom donates one valence electron to the oxygen atom, resulting in the formation of Na+ and O2- ions.
The Na+ and O2- ions attract each other due to their opposite charges, forming an overall neutrally charged ionic compound. This ionic bond between the sodium and oxygen atoms in sodium oxide affects stability by creating a more stable arrangement of electrons for both atoms.