Which of the following characterizes an ionic bond? ? *the electrons in the bond are shared between two atoms. *the electrons in the bond are shared between two ions.

Explanation:

An ionic bond is formed when there occurs transfer of electrons from one atom to another.

For example, atomic number of potassium is 19 and its electronic distribution is 2, 8, 8, 1. Whereas atomic number of chlorine is 17 and its electronic distribution is 2, 8, 7.

So, in order to attain stability potassium will lose its one valence electron and thus acquires a +1 charge. Whereas chlorine will gain one electron from potassium and thus, it acquires a -1 charge.

Hence, both potassium and chlorine will combine together.

Thus, we can conclude that the statement electrons in the bond are shared between two ions characterizes an ionic bond.