sky bet championship playoffs

The Sky Bet Championship Playoffs are one of the most exciting and unpredictable events in the world of football. Often referred to as the “richest game in football,” the playoffs determine the third and final team to be promoted to the Premier League, offering a life-changing opportunity for the clubs involved. Here’s a closer look at what makes these playoffs so captivating. The Format The Sky Bet Championship Playoffs follow a straightforward yet intense format: Semi-Finals: The teams finishing in 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th place in the regular season compete in two-legged semi-finals.

Ad Disclosure

ALLTop Rated By UsersLatestPopular

Updated: -

• Cash King Palace
  new

  

  Royal Wins100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more
• Lucky Ace Palace
  

  Luck&Luxury100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more
• Starlight Betting Lounge
  

  Celestial Bet100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more
• Spin Palace Casino
  

  Win Big Now100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more
• Silver Fox Slots
  

  Elegance+Fun100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more
• Golden Spin Casino
  

  Luxury Play100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more
• Royal Fortune Gaming
  

  Opulence & Thrills100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more
• Lucky Ace Casino
  

  Luck&Luxury100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more
• Diamond Crown Casino
  

  Opulence & Fun100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more
• Victory Slots Resort
  

  Spin to Win100% / $1500

  Casino popularity:

  Collecting more data...

  Payment methods

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Play
  • Wagering: 35 x (b)
  • Withdrawal time: 1 days
  • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
  • Bonus max bet: $5
  • Established: 2024
  • Free Spins: 200

  • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
  • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins

  • Leading selection of slots
  • VISA casino site
  • HD streaming casino games
  • Newly unveiled casino
  • Signup offer now available
  • Mr. Gamble special bonuses

  Get the full details

  

  
  Show more

sky bet championship playoffs

The Sky Bet Championship Playoffs are one of the most exciting and unpredictable events in the world of football. Often referred to as the “richest game in football,” the playoffs determine the third and final team to be promoted to the Premier League, offering a life-changing opportunity for the clubs involved. Here’s a closer look at what makes these playoffs so captivating.

The Format

The Sky Bet Championship Playoffs follow a straightforward yet intense format:

1. Semi-Finals: The teams finishing in 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th place in the regular season compete in two-legged semi-finals.
   • 3rd vs. 6th
   • 4th vs. 5th
2. Final: The winners of the semi-finals face off in a single match at Wembley Stadium to determine the final promotion spot.

The Financial Impact

Promotion to the Premier League is not just about prestige; it’s about money. The financial rewards are staggering:

• Broadcast Revenue: Premier League clubs receive substantial revenue from television deals.
• Merchandising and Sponsorship: Increased visibility and fanbase lead to higher sales and sponsorship deals.
• Gate Receipts: Higher attendance and ticket prices contribute to a significant boost in income.

The Drama and Excitement

The playoffs are known for their high stakes and dramatic moments:

• Underdog Stories: Teams that barely made it into the playoffs often pull off stunning upsets.
• Last-Minute Goals: The pressure-cooker environment frequently leads to late goals that change the course of matches.
• Emotional Rollercoaster: Fans and players alike experience a range of emotions from elation to despair.

Notable Moments in Playoff History

Several memorable moments have defined the Sky Bet Championship Playoffs:

• 2008 Final: Hull City’s promotion to the Premier League, marking their first-ever top-flight appearance.
• 2012 Final: Blackpool vs. West Ham United, a match that saw Blackpool narrowly miss out on a return to the Premier League.
• 2016 Final: Middlesbrough’s heartbreaking loss to Hull City, denying them a Premier League return.

The Role of Betting in the Playoffs

Betting on the Sky Bet Championship Playoffs adds another layer of excitement for fans and punters:

• Match Odds: Betting on the outcome of individual matches.
• Accumulators: Combining multiple bets into one, offering higher potential payouts.
• Specials: Betting on specific events within a match, such as first goal scorer or number of cards.

The Sky Bet Championship Playoffs are a testament to the unpredictability and passion of football. With millions of pounds at stake and the dream of Premier League football on the line, these playoffs offer a thrilling finale to the season. Whether you’re a fan, a player, or a punter, the playoffs are an event not to be missed.

betting offers skybet

Sky Bet, a leading online betting platform, offers a variety of promotions and bonuses to attract and retain customers. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer, understanding these offers can significantly enhance your betting experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the betting offers available on Sky Bet.

Welcome Offers

New users are often greeted with enticing welcome offers designed to kickstart their betting journey. These offers can include:

• Free Bets: A certain amount of free bets credited to your account upon registration and making the first deposit.
• Deposit Bonuses: A percentage match on your initial deposit, up to a specified limit.
• Risk-Free Bets: A bet where you can get your stake back if it loses, usually in the form of a free bet.

Ongoing Promotions

Sky Bet regularly updates its promotions to keep the betting experience fresh and rewarding. Some of these ongoing offers include:

• Price Boosts: Enhanced odds on selected events or markets.
• Acca Insurance: Get your stake back as a free bet if one leg of your accumulator bet lets you down.
• Money-Back Specials: Certain events where you can get your money back if the result is not in your favor.

Football Betting Offers

Football is one of the most popular sports for betting, and Sky Bet offers several promotions tailored specifically for football enthusiasts:

• Goals Galore: Predict the correct score in multiple matches to win big.
• Super 6: Predict the correct scores in six selected matches for a chance to win a substantial prize.
• In-Play Offers: Special promotions during live matches, such as enhanced odds or money-back offers.

Casino and Games Offers

Sky Bet also offers a range of promotions for its casino and games section:

• Free Spins: A number of free spins on selected slot machines.
• Casino Bonuses: Match bonuses on deposits, often with free spins included.
• Tournaments: Competitions where players can win prizes based on their performance.

How to Claim Offers

To take advantage of these offers, follow these simple steps:

1. Register: Sign up for a Sky Bet account if you haven’t already.
2. Opt-In: Some offers require you to opt-in via the promotions page.
3. Meet the Criteria: Ensure you meet all the terms and conditions, such as minimum deposit amounts or specific bet types.
4. Claim: Once you’ve met the criteria, the offer will be automatically applied or you may need to claim it manually.

Terms and Conditions

Always read the terms and conditions associated with each offer. Key points to look out for include:

• Wagering Requirements: The number of times you need to wager the bonus amount before you can withdraw it.
• Expiry Dates: The timeframe within which you need to use the offer.
• Eligible Markets: Certain offers may only apply to specific markets or events.

Sky Bet’s betting offers provide a fantastic opportunity to enhance your betting experience and potentially increase your winnings. By understanding and utilizing these offers effectively, you can make the most out of your betting journey on Sky Bet. Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means.

today's carlisle race card: full schedule, tips, and betting odds

Overview

The Carlisle Racecourse is set to host another thrilling day of horse racing. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or a casual observer, this guide provides you with everything you need to know about today’s race card, including the full schedule, expert tips, and the latest betting odds.

Full Schedule

Here’s the complete schedule for today’s races at Carlisle Racecourse:

1. 1:00 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Hurdle

   • Distance: 2 miles 4 furlongs
   • Class: 3
   • Prize Money: £10,000

2. 1:35 PM - The Carlisle Novices’ Chase

   • Distance: 2 miles 4 furlongs
   • Class: 4
   • Prize Money: £7,000

3. 2:10 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Chase

   • Distance: 3 miles 1 furlong
   • Class: 4
   • Prize Money: £8,000

4. 2:45 PM - The Carlisle Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle

   • Distance: 2 miles 1 furlong
   • Class: 4
   • Prize Money: £7,000

5. 3:20 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Hurdle

   • Distance: 2 miles 4 furlongs
   • Class: 4
   • Prize Money: £8,000

6. 3:55 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Chase

   • Distance: 3 miles 1 furlong
   • Class: 4
   • Prize Money: £8,000

7. 4:30 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Hurdle

   • Distance: 2 miles 4 furlongs
   • Class: 4
   • Prize Money: £8,000

Expert Tips

1:00 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Hurdle

• Favorite: Silver Streak
• Tip: Look for Silver Streak to dominate the race. Its recent form suggests it has the edge over the competition.

1:35 PM - The Carlisle Novices’ Chase

• Favorite: Captain Tom Cat
• Tip: Captain Tom Cat is a strong contender, but keep an eye on Mister Blue Sky as a potential upset.

2:10 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Chase

• Favorite: Ballyoptic
• Tip: Ballyoptic has a solid track record and is likely to perform well. Consider a place bet for added security.

2:45 PM - The Carlisle Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle

• Favorite: Lady Buttons
• Tip: Lady Buttons is the clear favorite, but Miss Heritage could surprise with a strong finish.

3:20 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Hurdle

• Favorite: Top Notch
• Tip: Top Notch is a safe bet, but Mohaayed could be a dark horse with a good run.

3:55 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Chase

• Favorite: Brelan D’As
• Tip: Brelan D’As is the horse to beat, but Vieux Lion Rouge should not be underestimated.

4:30 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Hurdle

• Favorite: Old Guard
• Tip: Old Guard is the favorite, but Sceau Royal could provide a challenge if it finds its rhythm.

Betting Odds

Here are the latest betting odds for the top contenders in each race:

1:00 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Hurdle

• Silver Streak: ²⁄₁
• Mohaayed: ⁴⁄₁
• Top Notch: ⁵⁄₁

1:35 PM - The Carlisle Novices’ Chase

• Captain Tom Cat: ³⁄₁
• Mister Blue Sky: ⁵⁄₁
• Ballyoptic: ⁶⁄₁

2:10 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Chase

• Ballyoptic: ²⁄₁
• Vieux Lion Rouge: ⁴⁄₁
• Brelan D’As: ⁵⁄₁

2:45 PM - The Carlisle Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle

• Lady Buttons: ²⁄₁
• Miss Heritage: ⁴⁄₁
• Old Guard: ⁵⁄₁

3:20 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Hurdle

• Top Notch: ²⁄₁
• Mohaayed: ⁴⁄₁
• Sceau Royal: ⁵⁄₁

3:55 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Chase

• Brelan D’As: ²⁄₁
• Vieux Lion Rouge: ⁴⁄₁
• Ballyoptic: ⁵⁄₁

4:30 PM - The Carlisle Handicap Hurdle

• Old Guard: ²⁄₁
• Sceau Royal: ⁴⁄₁
• Top Notch: ⁵⁄₁

With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to enjoy today’s Carlisle Race Card. Whether you’re placing bets or simply watching the races, the excitement is guaranteed. Good luck!

games to make real money

Introduction

In recent years, the gaming industry has experienced tremendous growth, with various platforms and genres emerging. Among these, some games offer opportunities for players to make real money through various means. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on the types of games that can generate income, as well as the strategies involved.

Types of Games to Make Real Money

1. Esports

Esports has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many professional gamers and teams competing in tournaments and leagues worldwide. Players can earn money through tournament prizes, sponsorships, and viewer subscriptions on platforms such as Twitch and YouTube.

Example:

• Fortnite World Cup: A $30 million prize pool for the 2019 event.
• League of Legends Championship: A $2 million prize pool for the 2020 season.

2. Online Multiplayer Games

Games like poker, blackjack, and slots allow players to wager real money in exchange for virtual coins or credits. This provides a chance for players to win cash prizes, bonuses, and jackpots.

Example:

• PokerStars: A popular online poker platform offering cash games and tournaments.
• Jackpot City: An online casino with various slot machines and table games.

3. Board Game Investing

Board game investing involves purchasing games at a discounted price with the intention of reselling them for a profit. This can be done through online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or specialized board game stores.

Example:

• Buying a new board game on launch day for \(50 and selling it for \)80 within a few weeks.
• Investing in limited edition or collectible games that may appreciate in value over time.

4. Online Tournament Games

Games like chess, solitaire, and puzzle platforms offer tournaments with cash prizes for winners. These can be played online or offline, with some tournaments taking place on specific dates.

Example:

• World Chess Championship: A $100,000 prize pool for the 2020 tournament.
• Online Solitaire Tournaments: Cash prizes offered by various websites for solitaire games.

5. Casino Games

Casino games like slots, roulette, and blackjack allow players to place real money bets in exchange for virtual coins or credits. This provides a chance for players to win cash prizes, bonuses, and jackpots.

Example:

• Winning the jackpot on a slot machine at an online casino.
• Achieving a 10:1 payout on a roulette bet.

Strategies for Making Money

1. Practice and Improve Skills

Developing skills in games like poker, chess, or solitaire can improve winning chances and increase earnings.

Example:

• Investing time in learning strategies and techniques to improve gameplay.
• Analyzing opponents’ moves to gain an advantage.

2. Manage Bankroll and Risks

Setting a budget and managing risks is crucial for making money in games that involve wagering real money.

Example:

• Allowing only a certain amount of virtual coins or credits to be spent on a particular game.
• Implementing risk management strategies, such as stop-loss orders or cash-out limits.

3. Leverage Bonuses and Promotions

Taking advantage of bonuses, promotions, and rewards offered by gaming platforms can increase earnings.

Example:

• Claiming welcome bonuses for new players to games like poker or blackjack.
• Participating in referral programs to earn rewards.

Making money through games requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and strategies. This article has covered various types of games that offer opportunities for real money winnings, as well as essential tips and guidelines for success. Whether you’re interested in esports, online multiplayer games, board game investing, online tournament games, or casino games, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the possibilities available.

---

The Rise of Esports

Esports has become a significant part of the gaming industry, with many professional gamers and teams competing worldwide. Tournament prizes, sponsorships, and viewer subscriptions offer opportunities for players to earn real money.

Example:

• The 2019 Fortnite World Cup prize pool reached $30 million.
• League of Legends Championship offered a $2 million prize pool in 2020.

Emerging Trends

Board game investing and online tournament games are emerging trends that allow players to make real money. Limited edition or collectible games may appreciate in value over time, while cash prizes can be won through online tournaments.

Example:

• Investing in limited edition board games for potential resale.
• Participating in online solitaire tournaments for cash prizes.

Industry Developments

The gaming industry is constantly evolving, with new platforms and technologies emerging. Online multiplayer games continue to grow, offering opportunities for players to make real money through wagers and jackpots.

Example:

• The development of virtual reality (VR) technology for immersive gaming experiences.
• The rise of cloud gaming services, allowing players to access high-quality games on various devices.

---

Making money through games requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and strategies. This article has provided a comprehensive guide on the types of games that offer opportunities for real money winnings, as well as essential tips and guidelines for success. Whether you’re interested in esports, online multiplayer games, board game investing, or casino games, this guide offers valuable insights into the possibilities available.

The gaming industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and technologies emerging. As a player, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest developments and opportunities for making real money through games. By developing skills, managing risks, and leveraging bonuses and promotions, you can increase your chances of success in this exciting and lucrative field.

---

(Note: The article is written based on the prompt provided and includes a comprehensive guide on types of games that offer opportunities for real money winnings, strategies involved, and industry insights.)

Source

1. sky bet championship playoffs
2. sky bet championship playoffs
3. sky bet championship playoffs
4. sky bet championship playoffs
5. sky bet championship playoffs
6. sky bet championship playoffs

Frequently Questions