An ionic solution is a type of liquid that contains ions, which are charged particles formed when an atom gains or loses electrons. These ions can be either positively charged, known as cations, or negatively charged, called anions. Ionic solutions are typically created when ionic compounds, such as table salt (sodium chloride), dissolve in water, allowing the ions to separate and move freely. In an ionic solution, the presence of these ions allows the solution to conduct electricity, a property known as electrical conductivity. This characteristic is important in various applications, including biological systems, where ions play crucial roles in processes like nerve signaling and muscle contraction.