Final answer:
Ionic bonding results from the attraction between positively charged cations and negatively charged anions, forming a stable ionic compound typically arranged in a crystal lattice structure. The correct answer to the student's question is B. Ionic bonding.
Step-by-step explanation:
The bond that results from the attraction between positively and negatively charged atoms, such as cations and anions, is known as ionic bonding. When a metal reacts with a non-metal, typically the metal atom transfers one or more electrons to the non-metal atom. This transfer creates cations, which are positively charged, and anions, which are negatively charged. These charged ions then attract each other due to electrostatic forces, forming a stable ionic compound that is often organized into a crystal lattice structure.
In contrast, covalent bonding occurs when atoms share pairs of electrons, and metallic bonding refers to the attraction between positive metal ions and delocalized electrons. Meanwhile, Van der Waals forces are weak attractions between molecules due to temporary dipoles. Answering the student's question directly, the bond formed between positive (cations) and negative (anions) ions is B. Ionic bonding.