What is is an ion?

Answer 1

In general, an ion is an atom or a molecule (group of atoms) that has gained or has lost one or more electrons, thus giving it an overall charge. An ion with more electrons than protons and thus having an overall negative charge is called a cation. Conversely, an ion with fewer electrons than protons and thus having an overall positive charge is an anion. The concept of an ion is a fundamental chemistry idea.

The charge of an ion can be indicated by a superscript +/- and then the charge number. For example, a sodium ion, with a charge of +1, and can be shown as Na+1, Na1+, or Na+.

Because of the nature of atomic structure, many atoms or groups of atoms want to "borrow" or "loan out" electrons to achieve a lower energy state. In ionic bonds, electrons are transferred rather than shared, as in covalent bonds. The electron structures of atoms drives the tendency of atoms to make those borrowing or loaning arrangements. Atoms want an inert gas electron configuration (8 outer-shell electrons), and will "pick up" or "dump" an electron or electrons to accomplish that goal. As mentioned, it's all about achieving a lower energy state, and as regards atom groups, they also want to make changes to move to a lower energy state. This is the fundamental driving force that we study in chemistry; it's what chemistry is all about. Use the links below to related questions and to other sites for more information. The definition of the word ion is "an atom or molecule with a net electric charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons."

Answer 2

If an atom has a structure of two shells, the inner one containing two electrons, the outer one containing seven, it doesn't have a complete outer shell. To have a complete outer shell, you must have eight electrons.

So, to do this, it must gain a single electron. But when it does that, it's charge becomes negative and it's no longer an atom, it's an ion.

Answer 3

an atom that has lost or gained 1 or more electrons - apex

Answer 4

An ion (cation or anion) is an electrically charged atom or group of atoms.

Answer 5

An ion is an atom, but with a negative or a positive charge.

Answer 6

An atom or covalently bonded group of atoms that carries a net electric charge.