What is the main difference between ionic bonds and covalent bonds?

The primary distinction between ionic and covalent bonds lies in the nature of the interaction between the atoms involved. Ionic bonds are formed through the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, typically occurring between metals and nonmetals. In this case, a metal atom loses one or more electrons, becoming a positively charged ion, while a nonmetal atom gains those electrons, resulting in a negatively charged ion. The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions leads to the formation of an ionic bond.

In contrast, covalent bonds involve the sharing of electron pairs between atoms, commonly occurring between nonmetals. This sharing results in a stable balance of attractive and repulsive forces between atoms, enabling them to achieve full valence shell configurations.

Understanding the characteristic formation of ionic bonds specifically between metals and nonmetals highlights the fundamental nature of these interactions, differentiating them from covalent bonds. This foundational concept helps clarify why the choice indicating that ionic bonds form between metals and nonmetals is the correct answer.