Chapter 2, Problem 1RQ

To determine

The formation of an ion from uncharged atom.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

An uncharged atom consists of an equal number of protons and electrons. When an atom loses or gains the electrons, it becomes an ion.

Explanation of Solution

An atom consists of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons have a positive (+) charge and electrons have a negative (-) charge while neutrons are neutral in charge. The number of electrons and protons remain the same in an atom. The positive and negative charge of protons and electrons respectively balances the structure of the atom. As long as the number of protons and electrons remain same an atom is uncharged.

Whenever an atom gains or loses an electron, it becomes charged. The charged atom is called an ion. When an atom gains an electron the charge on the atom would be (-) and it is called anion. When an atom loses an electron the charge on the atom would be (+) and it is called cation.