Ion-dipole interactions occur between an ion and a polar molecule. These interactions are significant in solutions where ionic compounds dissolve in polar solvents, such as water. The positive or negative charge of the ion attracts the opposite partial charge of the polar molecule, leading to a stable interaction. These interactions are crucial in various chemical processes, including hydration of ions in solution. For example, when table salt (sodium chloride) dissolves in water, the sodium ions are surrounded by the negative ends of water molecules, while the chloride ions are surrounded by the positive ends. This process helps to keep the ions separated in solution.