A cation is an atom that loses one or more electrons, which results in a net positive charge. This occurs because the number of protons (positively charged particles) remains the same while the number of electrons (negatively charged particles) decreases.

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What Is a Cation

Question 54

Multiple Choice

What is a cation?

A) an atom that loses one or more electrons and acquires a net positive charge
B) an atom that shares its valence electrons
C) a molecule that has both positive and negative charges
D) an atom that gains one or more electrons and acquires a net negative charge

Correct Answer: