Question

Q.14. Which of the following explain how an ion is formed? Explain your answer.

a. adding or subtracting protons to/from an atom

b. adding or subtracting neutrons to/from an atom

c. adding or subtracting electrons to/from an atom

Short answer

Answer

Option c is correct. Adding or subtracting electrons to/from an atom forms ions.

Step-by-step solution

Step-by-Step SolutionStep 1: Atom

The smallest particle of matter which is highly unstable is electrically neutral. The electrical neutrality is due to an equal number of oppositely charged species.

Charged subatomic particles

Electrons are negatively charged, and protons are positively charged among the three main subatomic particles.

Neutrons have no charge.

Both protons and neutrons are embedded inside the nucleus.

Ion

An ion is a charged species. It has either a positive charge or a negative charge.

It is formed from the atom either by losing or gaining electrons.

A positively charged ion is formed from an atom by losing electrons from it.

A negatively charged ion is formed from an atom by gaining electrons by it.

The correct answer is option c.