Atoms react to what form of ions?

Atoms typically react to form ions through the transfer or sharing of electrons, which leads to the formation of positively charged cations or negatively charged anions. This process occurs in order to achieve a more stable electron configuration, often resembling that of noble gases. For example, metals tend to lose electrons and form cations, while nonmetals tend to gain electrons to form anions. The resulting ionic bonds or covalent bonds facilitate the formation of compounds.