After electron transfer takes place, the atoms are no longer electrically neutral. By giving up one electron, a neutral sodium atom becomes positively charged(with 11 protons and 10 electrons) Similarly, by acquiring one electron, a neutral chlorine atom becomes negatively charged(with 17 protons and 18 electrons). We know that ions with like charges repel, and those with unlike charges attract. Thus, an ionic bond is the attraction of oppositely charged ions to one another, producing an electrically neutral compound.