How do atoms react with each other to form other substances?

I don't know what grade you are in but if this is not understandable, please clarify and repost. Many metals react with many non-metals with the metal losing electrons (forming a positive ion) and the non-metal gaining those electrons (forming a negative ion). That bond is called an ionic bond. Other atoms don't lose their electrons easily and they share electrons with another element. That is called a covalent bond. These are the two primaary types of bonds. I hope this helps.