Here's why:
* Ionic Bond: Formed by the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. One atom (typically a metal) loses electrons and becomes a positively charged ion (cation), while another atom (typically a nonmetal) gains electrons and becomes a negatively charged ion (anion). These ions then stick together due to their opposite charges.
* Covalent Bond: Formed by the sharing of electrons between two atoms. Both atoms contribute electrons to create a shared pair, which holds them together.
In summary:
* Ionic bond: Transfer of electrons, resulting in oppositely charged ions.
* Covalent bond: Sharing of electrons.