Which of the following statements is false?

• A. Cations are formed when neutral atoms lose electrons to become positively charged.
• B. Anions are formed when neutral atoms lose electrons to become negatively charged.
• C. Isotopes of gold atoms have the same number of protons.
• D. Isotopes of gold atoms have the same number of electrons.
• E. Most of an atom's volume is empty space.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of cations: Cations are positively charged ions formed when neutral atoms lose electrons. This statement is true.
2. Understand the definition of anions: Anions are negatively charged ions formed when neutral atoms gain electrons, not lose them. This statement is false.
3. Review the concept of isotopes: Isotopes of an element have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. Therefore, isotopes of gold have the same number of protons.
4. Consider the electron configuration of isotopes: Isotopes of an element generally have the same number of electrons in a neutral state, so isotopes of gold have the same number of electrons.
5. Analyze the structure of an atom: Most of an atom's volume is indeed empty space, as the nucleus is very small compared to the overall size of the atom. This statement is true.