An ion is formed ____.

Question

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An ion is formed when atoms exchange electrons. This process can occur between atoms of the same element, resulting in an ion with a different number of electrons than protons (an isotopic ion), or between atoms of different elements, resulting in ions with opposite charges that may be attracted to each other (ionic bonds). Covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms, but neither atom becomes charged as a result. Water molecules bound together do not necessarily form ions. Sharing electrons equally forms a nonpolar covalent bond, while sharing electrons unequally forms a polar covalent bond, but neither result in the formation of ions.

An Ion Is Formed ____