Multiple Choice
What is the charge on a sodium ion?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which of the following best describes a cation?
A
An ion with a negative charge
B
A neutral atom
C
An ion with a positive charge
D
A molecule with no net charge
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that an ion is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost electrons, resulting in a net electrical charge.
Recall that electrons carry a negative charge, so losing electrons results in a positive charge, while gaining electrons results in a negative charge.
Define a cation as an ion that has lost one or more electrons, giving it a net positive charge.
Contrast this with an anion, which is an ion that has gained electrons and thus has a negative charge.
Therefore, the best description of a cation is 'an ion with a positive charge.'
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