Ionic bonding is a type of electrostatic interaction between atoms which have a large electronegativity difference. In ionic bonding, electrons are completely transferred from one atom to another. In the process of either losing or gaining negatively charged electrons, the reacting atoms form ions. The oppositely charged ions are attracted to each other by electrostatic forces, which are the basis of the ionic bond.
Properties of Ionic Compounds
• Nearly all ionic compounds have very high melting and boiling points. Hence, they exist as solids at room temperature.
• Most ionic compounds are soluble in water.
• Ionic compounds do not conduct electricity in the solid state. However, they will conduct electricity in molten and aqueous states, as the ions are free moving.