Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Anion
An anion is a type of ion that carries a negative charge. This occurs when an atom gains one or more electrons, resulting in more electrons than protons. Anions are typically formed by nonmetals, which have a higher tendency to gain electrons during chemical reactions.
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Electron-Proton Balance
In a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons, balancing the positive and negative charges. When an atom becomes an anion, it gains electrons, disrupting this balance and resulting in a net negative charge due to the excess of electrons over protons.
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Atomic Structure
Atoms consist of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons. The number of protons defines the element, while the number of electrons determines the charge. Anions have more electrons than protons, altering the atom's charge without changing the number of protons or neutrons.
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