Introduction to Ions
Explore the basics of how atoms form ions by gaining or losing electrons at a Grade 6 level.
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Introduction to Ions
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Use complete sentences for short answer questions.
All matter is made of tiny particles called atoms. Atoms have a center called the nucleus, which contains protons (positive charge) and neutrons (no charge). Around the nucleus, electrons (negative charge) orbit. Normally, an atom has an equal number of protons and electrons, making it neutral. However, atoms can gain or lose electrons, becoming charged particles called ions.
1. What is the charge of a proton?
Negative
Positive
Neutral
Varies
2. What happens to an atom if it gains an electron?
It becomes a positive ion.
It becomes a negative ion.
Its charge remains neutral.
It changes into a different element.
3. Atoms that have gained or lost electrons are called .
4. Electrons have a charge.
5. The center of an atom is called the .
6. Explain why an atom becomes positively charged when it loses an electron.
7. Describe the difference between an atom and an ion.
8. An atom with 10 protons and 11 electrons is a positive ion.
True
False
9. Neutrons contribute to the charge of an atom.
True
False