Which of the following is the best description of how electrons are transferred in an ionic bond? A. A metal atom loses electrons and a nonmetal atom gains electrons.
B. A metal atom gains electrons and a nonmetal atom loses electrons.
C. A metal and a nonmetal atom lose electrons.
D. A metal and a nonmetal atom gain electrons.

A. A metal atom loses electrons and a nonmetal atom gains electrons.

Explanation:

An ionic bond is defined as the force of attraction between positive and negatively charged electrons.

An ionic bond is formed when a metal atom loses its electrons to atoms of a nonmetallic element. For example: Sodium Chloride (NaCl), where an atom of sodium (Na) donates an electron to an atom of chlorine (Cl) to form an ionic bond.

Hence, the correct answer is "A. A metal atom loses electrons and a nonmetal atom gains electrons."