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Multiple Choice
How do cations form?
A
By gaining protons
B
By losing electrons
C
By gaining electrons
D
By sharing electrons
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of cations: Cations are positively charged ions formed when an atom loses electrons.
Recall that electrons are negatively charged. Losing electrons results in a net positive charge for the atom.
Consider the atomic structure: Atoms consist of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons are positively charged, electrons are negatively charged, and neutrons have no charge.
Recognize that gaining protons is not a typical process for forming cations. Instead, the loss of electrons is the key process.
Remember that gaining electrons would result in an anion, which is a negatively charged ion, not a cation.