NCFE Physical Science Practice Exam 2025 – The Complete Guide to Master Your Exam Preparation!

Question: 1 / 400

What is an ion?

An atom that has a neutral charge

An atom that has gained or lost electrons

An ion is defined as an atom that has either gained or lost electrons, resulting in a net electric charge. This process changes the balance between the number of protons and electrons in the atom, leading to a charged particle. If an atom loses one or more electrons, it becomes positively charged and is referred to as a cation. Conversely, if it gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged and is called an anion. The charge of an ion is fundamental in various chemical reactions, as ions interact differently compared to neutral atoms. Understanding this concept is crucial in fields such as chemistry and physics, where ion behavior influences bonding, conductivity, and reactivity.

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A negatively charged particle

A positively charged particle

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