Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is true concerning calcium ions?
2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which of the following statements is true about ions?
A
Ions are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost one or more electrons.
B
Ions can only be formed by the loss of protons.
C
Ions are always neutral in charge.
D
Ions are formed only in gaseous states.
Verified step by step guidance1
Begin by understanding what an ion is. An ion is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost electrons, resulting in a net charge.
Consider the first statement: 'Ions are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost one or more electrons.' This is the definition of an ion, as gaining or losing electrons changes the charge of the atom or molecule.
Evaluate the second statement: 'Ions can only be formed by the loss of protons.' This is incorrect because ions are formed by the gain or loss of electrons, not protons. Protons define the element, and changing the number of protons would change the element itself.
Examine the third statement: 'Ions are always neutral in charge.' This is false because ions, by definition, have a net positive or negative charge due to the imbalance between protons and electrons.
Assess the fourth statement: 'Ions are formed only in gaseous states.' This is incorrect because ions can form in various states of matter, including solid, liquid, and gas, depending on the conditions and the substances involved.
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