An ionic bond is formed when

• A. Sharing electrons
• B. Transfer of electrons
• C. Covalent bonds between molecules
• D. Hydrogen bonding

Answer: (B)

An ionic bond forms when electrons are transferred from one atom to another, producing oppositely charged ions that attract each other. This transfer usually happens between a metal and a nonmetal, allowing both atoms to reach a more stable electron arrangement (often an octet). The resulting electrostatic attraction between the positively charged cation and the negatively charged anion holds the compound together, as in sodium chloride. Sharing electrons creates covalent bonds, not ionic bonds, and hydrogen bonding is a weaker interaction between polar molecules, not an ionic bond.