What is the main difference between an ionic bond and a covalent bond?

The distinction between an ionic bond and a covalent bond primarily lies in how electrons are handled between atoms. In an ionic bond, one atom transfers one or more electrons to another atom, resulting in the formation of charged ions. This transfer creates an electrostatic attraction between the positively charged ion (cation) and the negatively charged ion (anion), holding them together in a compound.

In contrast, a covalent bond forms when two atoms share one or more pairs of electrons. This sharing allows each atom to attain a stable electron configuration, typically achieved by fulfilling the octet rule. Thus, the defining feature of ionic bonding is the transfer of electrons, leading to the formation of ions, while covalent bonding is characterized by the sharing of electrons between atoms. The correct answer reflects this essential difference in electron interaction.