Question

Which of the following is NOT true about Ions?

a.) When atoms lose electrons they become negatively charged
b.) When atoms gain electrons they become anions
c.) Cations are positively charged ions
d.) Cations and anions are attracted to each other

Answer 1

The incorrect statement about ions is that atoms become negatively charged when they lose electrons; they actually become positively charged cations.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks us to identify which statement about ions is NOT true. After reviewing the concepts related to ions, we can analyze each statement provided:

• When atoms lose electrons they become negatively charged. This statement is incorrect because when atoms lose electrons, they actually become positively charged cations.
• When atoms gain electrons they become anions. This statement is correct; they are known as anions and carry a negative charge.
• Cations are positively charged ions. This statement is correct; cations are indeed positively charged ions resulting from the loss of electrons.
• Cations and anions are attracted to each other. This statement is correct, as opposite charges attract, leading cations and anions to form ionic bonds.

Hence, the answer to the question is: a.) When atoms lose electrons they become negatively charged is the statement that is NOT true about ions.