What are compounds formed by the transfer of electrons from a metal to a non-metal known as?

Compounds formed by the transfer of electrons from a metal to a non-metal are known as ionic compounds. In this type of bonding, metals, with a tendency to lose electrons and form cations, transfer electrons to non-metals, which have a tendency to gain electrons and form anions. The resulting electrostatic attraction between the oppositely charged ions leads to the formation of ionic bonds. Common examples include sodium chloride (NaCl), where sodium (metal) transfers an electron to chlorine (non-metal), resulting in the formation of Na⁺ and Cl⁻ ions, respectively. Ionic compounds typically have high melting and boiling points and conduct electricity when dissolved or molten.