Ionic charge refers to the electrical charge that an atom or molecule carries when it gains or loses electrons. Atoms typically have an equal number of protons and electrons, making them neutral. However, when an atom loses one or more electrons, it becomes a positively charged ion, known as a cation. Conversely, when an atom gains electrons, it becomes a negatively charged ion, called an anion. The ionic charge is crucial in the formation of ionic bonds, which occur between cations and anions. These bonds create compounds, such as sodium chloride (table salt), where the positive charge of sodium ions attracts the negative charge of chloride ions, resulting in a stable structure.