Atomic Structure: Ions

All atoms are neutral, but when they have a higher or lower number of electrons compared to protons, they become CHARGED IONS. These are divided into two groups:

Cations — Positively charged ions
Anions — Negatively charged ions

How to remember which is which? Just remember that ANIONS are A-Negative-ION. Wallah, so genius, I know.

TRENDS...

• Elements in group 1 to 4, all their atoms tend to lose an electron to complete their shells. Meanwhile, Elements in group 5 to 7, all their atoms tend to gain an electron.
• All metals are cations. All non-metals are Anions.

To help remember their charge, we can always go back to that beautiful valency table we had in the last post!