Understanding Ions and Their Charges

What is a cation (positive ion)?

• An atom that has gained electrons

• An atom that has lost electrons

• An atom with no charge

• An atom that has gained protons

What is an anion (negative ion)?

• An atom that has lost electrons

• An atom that has gained electrons

• An atom with no charge

• An atom that has lost protons

What is the charge of a cation?

• Positive

• Negative

• Neutral

• Variable

What is the charge of an anion?

• Positive

• Negative

• Neutral

• Variable

Which of the following elements is most likely to form a cation? (Clue - metal)

• Oxygen

• Chlorine

• Sodium

• Sulphur

Which of the following elements is most likely to form an anion? (Hint- non-metal)

• Magnesium

• Aluminium

• Fluorine

• Calcium

How many electrons does a sodium ion (Na⁺) have?

• 10

• 11

• 12

• 13

How many electrons does a chloride ion (Cl⁻) have?

• 16

• 17

• 18

• 19