Question

Differentiate between a cation and an anion.​

Answer 1

The positively charged ions are called cations and negatively charged ions are called anions.

Step-by-step explanation:

1. When an atom releases an electron to form the nearest rare gas configuration, it forms a positive ion.
2. Similarly, an atom receives an electron to form the nearest electronic configuration, it forms negative ions.
3. The positive ions have an affinity towards the negative electrode and moves towards it. So it is called cations.
4. The negative charge ions have an affinity towards the positive electrode and moves towards it. So, it is called anions.
5. Hence, the positively charged ions are called cations and negatively charged ions are called anions.