Question detail
What happens to an atom when it loses an electron, and what is the resulting particle called?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Atoms and isotopes
Question
What happens to an atom when it loses an electron, and what is the resulting particle called?
Answer
When an atom loses an electron, it becomes positively charged due to the excess of protons compared to electrons. The resulting particle is called a cation.
Explanation
This question tests the understanding of ion formation and the charge balance in atoms. It requires knowledge of how electrons affect the overall charge of an atom.
Common mistake
Confusing Atoms and Ions
Students often confuse atoms with ions, thinking they are the same when they are not.
Remember that atoms are neutral with equal numbers of protons and electrons, while ions are charged particles formed when atoms lose or gain electrons.
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