Which term refers to a positively charged ion?

Prepare for the NANTeL Chemistry Certification and Engineering Fundamentals Test with multiple choice questions, detailed explanations, and key insights to boost your understanding and confidence. Ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which term refers to a positively charged ion?

Explanation:
A positively charged ion is formed when an atom loses one or more electrons, leaving more protons than electrons. This species is called a cation. The loss of negatively charged electrons creates a net positive charge, so the atom becomes a positively charged ion, like sodium losing an electron to become Na+. An electron is a negatively charged particle, not an ion of an atom in typical chemistry usage, and a neutron has no electrical charge at all. A negatively charged ion is an anion, which forms when an atom gains electrons.

A positively charged ion is formed when an atom loses one or more electrons, leaving more protons than electrons. This species is called a cation. The loss of negatively charged electrons creates a net positive charge, so the atom becomes a positively charged ion, like sodium losing an electron to become Na+.

An electron is a negatively charged particle, not an ion of an atom in typical chemistry usage, and a neutron has no electrical charge at all. A negatively charged ion is an anion, which forms when an atom gains electrons.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy