2.1.2

Ions

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Ions

Ions are particles that have a charge. They are created when an atom or molecule gains or loses electrons. Gaining electrons creates a negatively charged ion; losing electrons creates a positively charged ion.

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Positive ions (cations)

  • Positive ions are usually created when an atom or molecule loses electrons.
  • Positive ions are also called cations.
  • The metals in Group 1 and 2 can easily lose electrons to become positively charged ions.
Illustrative background for Negative ions (anions)Illustrative background for Negative ions (anions) ?? "content

Negative ions (anions)

  • Negative ions are usually created when an atom or molecule gains electrons.
  • Negative ions are also called anions.
  • The non-metals in Group 7 are most likely to gain electrons to fill up their electron shell and become negatively charged.
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Ions containing multiple elements

  • Ions can be made up of:
    • 1 atom (e.g. F-).
    • Combinations of atoms with an overall charge (e.g. SO42-).

Jump to other topics

1Atomic Structure

2Chemical Bonding

3Quantitative Chemistry

4Chemical Changes

5Energy Changes

6The Rate & Extent of Chemical Change

7Organic Chemistry

8Chemical Analysis

9Chemistry of the Atmosphere

10Using Resources

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