Multiple Choice
Which particle is a negatively charged ion?
2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Which of the following best describes the difference between a cation and an anion?
A
A cation has a positive charge, while an anion has a negative charge.
B
A cation is always larger than its neutral atom, while an anion is always smaller.
C
A cation has more electrons than protons, while an anion has more protons than electrons.
D
A cation is formed by gaining electrons, while an anion is formed by losing electrons.
Verified step by step guidance1
Begin by understanding the basic definitions of cations and anions. A cation is an ion with a positive charge, while an anion is an ion with a negative charge.
Consider how these charges are formed. A cation is formed when an atom loses one or more electrons, resulting in more protons than electrons. Conversely, an anion is formed when an atom gains one or more electrons, resulting in more electrons than protons.
Reflect on the size comparison between ions and their neutral atoms. Generally, a cation is smaller than its neutral atom because losing electrons reduces electron-electron repulsion and allows the remaining electrons to be pulled closer to the nucleus. An anion is larger than its neutral atom because gaining electrons increases electron-electron repulsion, causing the electron cloud to expand.
Evaluate the statement about the number of protons and electrons. A cation does not have more electrons than protons; it has fewer electrons than protons. An anion does not have more protons than electrons; it has more electrons than protons.
Finally, analyze the statement about the formation of ions. A cation is formed by losing electrons, not gaining them, and an anion is formed by gaining electrons, not losing them.
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