What type of bond is characterized by the electrostatic attraction between positively and negatively charged ions?

The bond characterized by the electrostatic attraction between positively and negatively charged ions is known as an ionic bond. This type of bond occurs when atoms transfer electrons from one to another, leading to the formation of ions. A metal atom typically loses one or more electrons to become a positively charged cation, while a non-metal atom gains those electrons to become a negatively charged anion. The strong electrostatic forces between these oppositely charged ions result in the formation of a stable compound.

Ionic bonds are commonly found in salts, where the arrangement of these ions creates a crystalline structure that is held together by these attractions. This is a fundamental concept in chemistry and materials science, as the properties of ionic compounds, including their high melting and boiling points, are a direct consequence of the strength of the ionic bonds between the ions.

Other types of bonds, such as covalent bonds, involve the sharing of electrons between atoms rather than the transfer that characterizes ionic bonds. Hydrogen bonds are weaker interactions that occur between molecules with polar covalent bonds and are not due to the direct attraction between ions. Metallic bonds involve a 'sea of electrons' that allows for conductivity and malleability in metals, which is distinct from the ionic bonding mechanism.