How does a neutral atom become a charged ion?
I. By adjusting its number of electrons.
II. By adjusting its number of protons.
III. By adjusting its number of neutrons.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A neutral atom becomes a charged ion by adjusting its number of electrons. Adding or removing electrons changes the charge without altering the atomic identity, which is defined by the number of protons. Changing the number of protons would result in a different element, and neutrons affect isotopes, not charge.

How Does a Neutral Atom Become a Charged Ion