Question

What is an ion? Explain with examples.

Answer 1

An ion is an electrically charged atom (or group of atoms). An ion is formed by the loss or gain of electrons by an atom, so it contains an unequal number of electrons and protons. There are two types of ions: cations and anions. A cation is an ion with a positive charge. Sodium ions (Na⁺) and magnesium ions (Mg²⁺) are cations because they carry a positive charge. An anion is defined as a negatively charged ion. Chloride ion (Cl⁻) and oxide ion (O²⁻) are classified as anions due to their negative charge.