Multiple Choice
Which process must an atom undergo to become a negative ion?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which of the following best describes how an ion differs from an atom?
A
An ion is always radioactive, while an atom is not.
B
An ion has more neutrons than an atom of the same element.
C
An ion has a different number of electrons than protons, resulting in a net electrical charge.
D
An ion always has a higher atomic mass than an atom.
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that an atom is electrically neutral, meaning it has an equal number of protons (positively charged) and electrons (negatively charged).
Understand that an ion is formed when an atom gains or loses electrons, which changes the balance between positive and negative charges.
Recognize that the number of protons in the nucleus (which defines the element) remains the same for both the atom and its ion.
Note that gaining electrons results in a negatively charged ion (anion), while losing electrons results in a positively charged ion (cation).
Conclude that the key difference is that an ion has a different number of electrons compared to protons, giving it a net electrical charge, unlike a neutral atom.
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