Which of the following statements is correct about ionic bonds?

Ionic bonds are indeed formed through electron transfer. This process occurs when one atom donates one or more of its electrons to another atom, resulting in the formation of charged ions. Typically, this involves a metal losing electrons to become a positively charged cation and a non-metal gaining those electrons to become a negatively charged anion. The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions results in a strong ionic bond.

Understanding the nature of ionic bonds clarifies why the other options are not accurate. For example, ionic bonds are not characterized by electron sharing—that specific interaction pertains to covalent bonds. While ionic bonds can exhibit significant strength, the strength comparison to covalent bonds can vary depending on the specific substances involved and the environmental conditions. Furthermore, ionic bonding is prevalent in many ceramic materials, which are composed of ionic compounds, challenging the idea that ionic bonds do not occur in ceramics.