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An ion is an atom with a net electrical charge due to ______.

2 Answers

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the loss of one or more electrons & the addition of one of more electrons
User Stefan Valianu
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5 votes

Step-by-step explanation:

Loss of one or more electrons by a neutral atom will help the neutral atom to acquire a positive charge.

For example, atomic number of sodium is 11 and to stabilize itself it needs to lose one electron. So, by losing an electron it will change into
Na^(+) ion.

On the other hand, gain of one or more electrons by a neutral atom will help the neutral atom to acquire a negative charge.

For example, Cl has atomic number 17 and to fill its octet completely it need one more electron. So, by gaining an electron is will change into
Cl^(-) ion.

Therefore, we can conclude that an ion is an atom with a net electrical charge due to loss or gain of electrons.

User Ikaerom
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