Multiple Choice
Which of the following elements is most likely to form a cation?
1
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which process leads to the formation of a cation from a neutral atom?
A
The atom gains one or more neutrons.
B
The atom loses one or more protons.
C
The atom loses one or more electrons.
D
The atom gains one or more electrons.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that a cation is a positively charged ion formed when an atom loses electrons.
Recall that electrons carry a negative charge, so losing electrons results in a net positive charge on the atom.
Recognize that gaining neutrons changes the isotope but does not affect the charge, so it does not form a cation.
Know that losing protons would change the element itself, which is not the process for forming a cation.
Confirm that gaining electrons would add negative charge, forming an anion, not a cation.
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