What are the characteristics of ionic bonds?

Ionic bonds form between atoms that transfer electrons to one another. These bonds require at least one electron donor and one electron acceptor. During ionic bonding, a complete transfer of valence electrons takes place between atoms.

Ionic bonding produces two oppositely charged ions. When a metal and a non-metal atom form an ionic bond, the metal ion loses electrons and becomes a positively charged cation. Conversely, the non-metal atom gains electrons and becomes a negatively charged anion. Metals are good candidates for ionic bonding because they have few electrons in their outer shells. During ionic bonding, more than one electron can be accepted or donated.