Question detail
What usually happens when a metal atom forms an ion?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
The periodic table
Question
- A. It loses electrons and becomes a positive ion
- B. It gains electrons and becomes a negative ion
- C. It loses protons and becomes neutral
- D. It gains neutrons and becomes a molecule
Answer
It loses electrons and becomes a positive ion
Explanation
The correct option is It loses electrons and becomes a positive ion. Metals form positive ions by losing electrons. Gaining electrons describes many non-metals, while changing protons or neutrons is not how ordinary ions form.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Metal Definition
Students often define metals as any elements that can conduct electricity, rather than specifically as elements that react to form positive ions.
Focus on the definition that metals are elements that react to form positive ions, and remember that conductivity is a separate property.
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