An ionic bond is that in which an electron is trasferred to another atom. Atoms that are considered metals have a low electronegativity meaning they are less likely to gain any electrons. Atoms that are non-metals have a higher electronegativity and are more likey to gain electrons than lose electrons. When an electron is either lost or gained by another electron the atome becomes more stable. Atoms with a complete and balanced valence shell stay close together because of the Nucleus with its strong electromagnetic pull. The stronger the pull the more likely the atom will gain an electron. The weaker the pull the more likely it will lose an electron.
