Multiple Choice
Which process leads to the formation of a cation?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which of the following best describes how positive ions (cations) and negative ions (anions) are formed?
A
Positive ions are formed when atoms gain electrons, while negative ions are formed when atoms lose electrons.
B
Positive ions are formed when atoms lose electrons, while negative ions are formed when atoms gain electrons.
C
Positive ions and negative ions are both formed when atoms share electrons equally.
D
Positive ions are formed when atoms gain protons, while negative ions are formed when atoms lose protons.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that ions are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost electrons, resulting in a net electrical charge.
Recall that electrons carry a negative charge, so gaining electrons adds negative charge, and losing electrons removes negative charge.
Recognize that when an atom loses one or more electrons, it has more protons than electrons, resulting in a positive charge; this is called a cation.
Recognize that when an atom gains one or more electrons, it has more electrons than protons, resulting in a negative charge; this is called an anion.
Conclude that positive ions (cations) are formed by losing electrons, and negative ions (anions) are formed by gaining electrons.
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