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Multiple Choice
An atom of magnesium has lost two electrons. It is known as a(n) ________.
A
cation
B
anion
C
neutral atom
D
isotope
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the terms: An atom is neutral when it has equal numbers of protons and electrons. When electrons are lost or gained, the atom becomes charged.
Recall that losing electrons results in a positive charge because there are now more protons than electrons.
Recognize that a positively charged ion formed by losing electrons is called a cation.
Note that an anion is a negatively charged ion formed by gaining electrons, which is not the case here.
Therefore, an atom of magnesium that has lost two electrons is called a cation.