Chapter 17, Problem 61A

To become a positive ion, does an atom lose or gain an electron?

To determine

To identify: Whether an atom loses or gain electron, to become a positive ion.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Ion:

When there is a loss or gain of electron in an atom, an ion is formed. An ion must have a net electric charge.

If the charge on ion is positive, it is called cations and if the charge is positive it is called anions.

When an atom is neutral, the charge on it is zero. Since an electron is having negative charge. So, when an atom loses an electron, the charge on it will automatically become positive.

It means to become a positive ion, an atom will have to lose an electron.