In metallic bonds, the valence electrons from the s and p orbitals of the interacting metal atoms delocalize. That is to say, instead of orbiting their respective metal atoms, they form a “sea” of electrons that surrounds the positively charged atomic nuclei of the interacting metal ions.
<span>When an ionic bond is formed between sodium (na) and chlorine (cl), the resulting molecule is called halite (salt). Ionic bonds involve the transfer of valence electrons. When this occurs between metals and non-metals, the metal loses an electron (becoming a cation) and the non-metal gains an electron (becoming an anion).</span>