ânions
Anions are negatively charged ions that form when atoms gain electrons or when a molecule loses a proton to yield its conjugate base. They contrast with cations, which carry positive charges. In aqueous solutions, most anions are highly mobile and exist with hydration shells that affect their behavior in solution, transport, and reactivity.
Common inorganic anions include chloride (Cl−), hydroxide (OH−), nitrate (NO3−), sulfate (SO4^2−), carbonate (CO3^2−), and phosphate
Formation and roles: Anions arise from the deprotonation of acids (yielding conjugate bases) or by the gain
Environmental and industrial relevance: Anions such as nitrate and phosphate are important nutrients but can cause
Terminology: In English, the term is anion (plural anions). In some languages, including Portuguese, the plural