Multiple Choice
What is the charge of a magnesium ion (Mg^{2+})?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which is a characteristic of all ions?
A
They always carry a negative charge.
B
They have the same number of neutrons as electrons.
C
They have an unequal number of protons and electrons.
D
They are always formed from nonmetal atoms.
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall the definition of an ion: an ion is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost one or more electrons, resulting in a net electrical charge.
Understand that the charge of an ion can be either positive or negative, depending on whether electrons are lost (positive ion) or gained (negative ion).
Recognize that because ions have gained or lost electrons, the number of electrons is not equal to the number of protons, which causes the net charge.
Note that ions are not limited to nonmetal atoms; metals can also form ions, so this is not a universal characteristic.
Conclude that the defining characteristic of all ions is that they have an unequal number of protons and electrons, which gives them their charge.
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