Ions

Ions

1. Types

   • Cations
     • a cation is a positively charged ion
   • Anions
     • An anion is a negatively charged ion.

2. Ions are atoms that have a positive or negative charge because they have unequal numbers of protons and electrons. If atoms lose electrons, they become positive ions, or cations. If atoms gain electrons, they become negative ions, or anions.

3. Ions are highly reactive, especially as gases. They usually react with ions of opposite charge to form neutral compounds.

4. Ions are atoms that have a positive or negative charge because they have unequal numbers of protons and electrons. If atoms lose electrons, they become positive ions, or cations. If atoms gain electrons, they become negative ions, or anions.