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Multiple Choice
When atoms gain or lose electrons, they become negatively or positively charged. They are known as:
A
Molecules
B
Isotopes.
C
Ions.
D
Radioactive.
E
Unstable atoms.
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that atoms are neutral when they have an equal number of protons and electrons.
Recognize that when an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged, and when it loses electrons, it becomes positively charged.
Identify that atoms with a net charge due to the loss or gain of electrons are called ions.
Differentiate ions from molecules, which are groups of atoms bonded together, and isotopes, which are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons.
Conclude that the term 'ions' specifically refers to atoms that have gained or lost electrons, resulting in a charge.