Question

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

An ion is formed by adding or subtracting electrons to/from an atom, resulting in a net electrical charge. Option c is correct, as changes in protons or neutrons result in different elements or isotopes, not ions.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze Option a. Adding or subtracting protons to/from an atom

Option a refers to changing the number of protons in an atom. When the number of protons in an atom changes, the type of element itself changes and not its ionization state. This process leads to a different element or isotope, not an ion.

Analyze Option b. Adding or subtracting neutrons to/from an atom

Option b mentions altering the number of neutrons in an atom. The number of neutrons in an atom affects its mass, and changing the number of neutrons results in different isotopes of the same element. However, the ionization state doesn't change, and therefore, this option doesn't lead to the formation of an ion.

Analyze Option c. Adding or subtracting electrons to/from an atom

Option c refers to the gain or loss of electrons in an atom. When an atom gains or loses electrons, it acquires a net electrical charge, turning it into an ion. With this knowledge, we will conclude that this option correctly describes the process of ion formation. So, the correct answer is: c. adding or subtracting electrons to/from an atom In conclusion, an ion is formed by adding or subtracting electrons to or from an atom, resulting in a net electrical charge. Other options involving changes in protons or neutrons result in different elements or isotopes, not ions.