# Explain how an ionic bond is formed when sodium reacts with chlorine. Include in your answer the charges of the ions formed.

> AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462) — 4.2.1 Chemical bonds, ionic, covalent and metallic · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The sodium atom loses one electron (from its outer shell)
2. The chlorine atom gains one electron (into its outer shell)
3. Sodium forms a positively charged ion (Na⁺) and chlorine forms a negatively charged ion (Cl⁻)
4. An ionic bond is formed by the strong electrostatic forces of attraction between the oppositely charged ions

## Key terms

- [ionic bond](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ionic-bond)
- [ion](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ion)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-an-ionic-bond-is-11a89590) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.