How do positive and negative ions attract each other?

Positive and negative ions attract each other due to the electrostatic force between opposite charges.

In more detail, ions are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost electrons, resulting in a net charge. Positive ions, also known as cations, have lost electrons and therefore have more protons than electrons. On the other hand, negative ions, or anions, have gained electrons and have more electrons than protons.

The attraction between positive and negative ions is a fundamental principle of chemistry and is known as ionic bonding. This is based on Coulomb's Law, which states that the force between two charges is directly proportional to the product of their charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. In simpler terms, opposite charges attract each other, and the closer they are, the stronger the attraction.

This electrostatic force of attraction, which is a non-contact force, holds the positive and negative ions together in a giant ionic lattice. Each ion in this lattice is surrounded by ions of the opposite charge, resulting in a strong and stable structure. This is why ionic compounds, such as sodium chloride (table salt), have high melting and boiling points.

The concept of ions and their attraction to each other is crucial in understanding many chemical reactions. For example, when an ionic compound dissolves in water, the positive and negative ions separate and are surrounded by water molecules, a process known as hydration. This is what allows the ions to move freely and conduct electricity.

In summary, the attraction between positive and negative ions is due to the electrostatic force between them, which is a fundamental principle in chemistry and is responsible for the formation of ionic compounds and their properties.