Multiple Choice
Which of the following happens when potassium forms an ion?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which process causes an atom to become a cation with a positive charge?
A
It loses one or more protons.
B
It loses one or more electrons.
C
It gains one or more electrons.
D
It gains one or more protons.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that an atom becomes a cation when it has a net positive charge.
Recall that the charge of an atom depends on the balance between protons (positive charge) and electrons (negative charge).
Recognize that protons are located in the nucleus and are not lost or gained during typical chemical processes; the number of protons defines the element.
Identify that losing electrons, which carry a negative charge, reduces the negative charge and results in a net positive charge, forming a cation.
Therefore, the process that causes an atom to become a cation is the loss of one or more electrons.
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