This is because ionic compounds are electrically neutral. Here's why:
* Cations: Positively charged ions formed when an atom loses electrons.
* Anions: Negatively charged ions formed when an atom gains electrons.
The attraction between oppositely charged ions (cations and anions) holds the compound together. To maintain neutrality, the total positive charge from the cations must exactly balance the total negative charge from the anions.
Example:
Sodium chloride (NaCl) is a common ionic compound.
* Sodium (Na) loses one electron to become a cation with a +1 charge (Na⁺).
* Chlorine (Cl) gains one electron to become an anion with a -1 charge (Cl⁻).
The formula NaCl represents one Na⁺ ion and one Cl⁻ ion. The charges (+1) and (-1) add up to zero, resulting in a neutral compound.
