Textbook Question
How do atoms of different elements differ?
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4. Atoms and Elements
Ions (Simplified)
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Which term describes an atom that has lost or gained electrons?
A
Molecule
B
Neutral atom
C
Isotope
D
Ion
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that atoms are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons have a positive charge, electrons have a negative charge, and neutrons are neutral.
Recognize that a neutral atom has an equal number of protons and electrons, resulting in no overall charge.
When an atom loses one or more electrons, it has more protons than electrons, giving it a positive charge. This positively charged atom is called a cation.
When an atom gains one or more electrons, it has more electrons than protons, giving it a negative charge. This negatively charged atom is called an anion.
The general term for an atom that has lost or gained electrons, thus carrying a charge, is an 'ion'.
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