Ionic bonding occurs between metals and nonmetals. In this type of bond, electrons are transferred from the metal atom to the nonmetal atom. This transfer creates positive and negative ions which are attracted to each other due to their opposite charges. Let's take the example of sodium chloride (NaCl) to understand this concept.

Sodium (Na) is a metal that has one electron in its outermost energy level. Chlorine (Cl), on the other hand, is a nonmetal that requires one electron to complete its outermost energy level. When sodium and chlorine come together, sodium donates its outermost electron to chlorine, forming a positively charged sodium ion (Na+) and a negatively charged chloride ion (Cl-). These ions are held together by electrostatic forces, forming an ionic bond.

Ionic compounds have several characteristics. They are usually solid at room temperature and have high melting and boiling points. Additionally, they conduct electricity when dissolved in water or when melted because their ions are free to move and carry electric charge.