Multiple Choice
Which type of element is most likely to form a cation?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which of the following best describes how ions differ from atoms?
A
Ions have a different number of neutrons than atoms of the same element.
B
Ions are always larger in size than neutral atoms.
C
Ions have a different number of electrons than protons, resulting in a net electrical charge.
D
Ions have a different number of protons than atoms of the same element.
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that atoms of the same element have the same number of protons, which defines the element's identity.
Understand that ions are formed when an atom gains or loses electrons, changing the balance between protons and electrons.
Recognize that the number of neutrons in ions and atoms of the same element typically remains the same; neutrons affect isotopes, not ion formation.
Note that ions can be either positively charged (cations) if electrons are lost, or negatively charged (anions) if electrons are gained, resulting in a net electrical charge.
Conclude that the key difference between ions and neutral atoms is the difference in the number of electrons compared to protons, which gives ions their charge.
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