Chapter 3, Problem 3.41AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The charge of the given ion to be predicted.

Concept Introduction:

Electron configuration: The distribution of electrons of an atom or molecule in atomic or molecular orbitals.

Formation of ions: 

Atom possesses equal number of protons and electrons and remains electrically neutral. By gaining (accepting electrons) or losing (donating electrons) one or more electrons, converts the neutral atom into a charged particle called IONS.

Cation: The loss of one or more electrons by a neutral atom leaves the atom positively charged ion called cation.

Anion: The gain of one or more electrons by a neutral atom leaves the neutral atom negatively charged ion called anion.

The symbolic representation of ions:

The electrons are reside in the principal quantum number ‘n’; by losing and gaining electron, reduces and increases in the electron count in the electronic configuration of the atom; for a cation adding positive charge as a superscript to the symbol of the element and for the anion adding negative charge as superscript to the symbol of the element.