Question

Which of these answers best describes ionic compounds?

A. Atoms share protons.
B. Atoms are held together by electrostatic forces.
C. Elements change into different elements.
D. Atoms share electrons.

Answer 1

Ionic compounds are formed through the gain or loss of electrons by atoms to form ions, which are held together by attractive electrostatic forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ionic compounds are formed when atoms gain or lose electrons to achieve a filled outer shell. This results in the formation of ions, which are electrically charged particles. The attraction between oppositely charged ions holds the ionic compound together. For example, sodium chloride (NaCl) is an ionic compound because sodium loses an electron to become a positive ion (Na+) and chlorine gains an electron to become a negative ion (Cl-).

Answer 2

The best answer that describes ionic compounds is B. Atoms are held together by electrostatic forces. Ionic compounds are formed by the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in the formation of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. These oppositely charged ions are held together by strong electrostatic forces, resulting in the formation of a stable ionic compound. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.