Ionsatoms

Ionsatoms refers to atoms that have gained or lost one or more electrons, resulting in a net electrical charge. An atom is normally electrically neutral because it contains an equal number of positively charged protons in its nucleus and negatively charged electrons orbiting the nucleus. When an atom loses electrons, it has more protons than electrons, giving it a positive charge. Such a positively charged ion is called a cation. Conversely, when an atom gains electrons, it has more electrons than protons, resulting in a negative charge. This negatively charged ion is called an anion. The formation of ions is a fundamental process in chemistry, particularly in the formation of ionic compounds, where oppositely charged ions are held together by electrostatic attraction. For example, sodium (Na) readily loses an electron to become a sodium cation (Na+), while chlorine (Cl) readily gains an electron to become a chloride anion (Cl-). These ions then combine to form sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt. The properties of substances are often greatly influenced by the presence and behavior of ions.