What is an ion?

An ion is defined as an atom that has either gained or lost electrons, resulting in a net electric charge. This process changes the balance between the number of protons and electrons in the atom, leading to a charged particle. If an atom loses one or more electrons, it becomes positively charged and is referred to as a cation. Conversely, if it gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged and is called an anion. The charge of an ion is fundamental in various chemical reactions, as ions interact differently compared to neutral atoms. Understanding this concept is crucial in fields such as chemistry and physics, where ion behavior influences bonding, conductivity, and reactivity.