Which of the following statements is true of ALL atoms that are anions?

• A. The atom has more electrons than protons.
• B. The atom has more protons than electrons.
• C. The atom has fewer protons than a neutral atom of the same element.
• D. The atom has more neutrons than protons.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of an anion: An anion is an atom or molecule that has gained one or more electrons, resulting in a net negative charge.
2. Recall that atoms are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons are positively charged, electrons are negatively charged, and neutrons have no charge.
3. Consider the charge balance in an atom: In a neutral atom, the number of protons equals the number of electrons, resulting in no net charge.
4. Analyze what happens when an atom becomes an anion: The atom gains additional electrons, increasing the number of electrons compared to protons, which results in a negative charge.
5. Conclude that for an atom to be an anion, it must have more electrons than protons, as this imbalance is what gives the atom its negative charge.