Multiple Choice
When an atom gains electrons to become a negative ion (anion), how does its size change compared to the neutral atom?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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When an atom loses an electron to form a cation, which changes occur in both its charge and its radius?
A
The charge becomes more negative and the radius decreases.
B
The charge becomes more negative and the radius increases.
C
The charge becomes more positive and the radius decreases.
D
The charge becomes more positive and the radius increases.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that when an atom loses an electron, it forms a cation. This means the atom has more protons than electrons, resulting in a net positive charge.
Recognize that losing an electron reduces the electron-electron repulsion in the atom's electron cloud, allowing the remaining electrons to be pulled closer to the nucleus.
Recall that the charge of the ion changes from neutral (0) to positive (+), because electrons (which are negatively charged) are removed.
Know that the radius of the ion decreases because the effective nuclear charge experienced by the remaining electrons increases, pulling them closer to the nucleus.
Summarize that the correct changes are: the charge becomes more positive and the radius decreases.
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