* Sodium (Na) is a metal and has a tendency to lose one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration. This leaves it with a positive charge, forming a sodium ion (Na+).
* Chlorine (Cl) is a nonmetal and has a tendency to gain one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration. This gives it a negative charge, forming a chloride ion (Cl-).
* Electrostatic Attraction: The oppositely charged sodium and chloride ions are strongly attracted to each other due to electrostatic forces. This attraction forms the ionic bond, creating the compound sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt.
