Multiple Choice
The compound CaSO4 ionizes into a calcium ion and a sulfate ion (SO4). Calcium has two electrons in its outer shell. Upon ionization, what would you expect the charge on the sulfate ion to be?
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2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components
Ionic Bonding
Multiple Choice
When atoms gain or lose electrons, they become negatively or positively charged. They are known as:
A
Molecules
B
Isotopes.
C
Ions.
D
Radioactive.
E
Unstable atoms.
Verified step by step guidance1
Begin by understanding the basic structure of an atom, which consists of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons are positively charged, electrons are negatively charged, and neutrons have no charge.
Recognize that atoms are neutral when they have an equal number of protons and electrons. This balance of charges results in no overall charge.
Learn that when an atom gains or loses electrons, it disrupts this balance. If an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged, and if it loses electrons, it becomes positively charged.
Understand that atoms with a net positive or negative charge are called ions. This is because the imbalance in the number of protons and electrons results in a charged particle.
Differentiate ions from other terms: Molecules are groups of atoms bonded together, isotopes are atoms with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, radioactive atoms have unstable nuclei, and unstable atoms may refer to atoms that are reactive or have incomplete electron shells.
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