Which statement about ionic bonds is true?

• A. They are formed by sharing electrons between atoms
• B. They involve transfer of electrons and attraction between oppositely charged ions
• C. They occur only in covalent molecules
• D. They are weaker than covalent bonds in all contexts

Answer: (B)

Ionic bonds form when electrons are transferred from one atom to another, creating oppositely charged ions that attract each other. This electrostatic attraction holds the ions together in a solid lattice, making ionic compounds typically sturdy in the solid state. In contrast, covalent bonds arise from sharing electrons between atoms, not from full transfer, so sharing describes a different type of bond. Ionic bonding often occurs between metals and nonmetals, and these compounds can dissolve and dissociate in water, allowing the ions to move and conduct electricity. Because of these features, the statement that ionic bonds involve electron transfer and attraction between oppositely charged ions is the accurate description.