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Anion

Definition

An anion is an atom or group of atoms that has gained one or more electrons, giving it a negative charge.

Analogy

Now imagine you're still at that party and decide to take home some leftover pizza (gain an electron). You now have something extra - just like how an atom becomes negatively charged when it gains an electron!

Related terms

Electron Affinity: The amount of energy released when an electron is added to a neutral atom. It’s like how happy you would feel if someone gave you free pizza at the party!

Covalent Bonding: This type of bonding happens when two atoms share electrons. In some cases, one atom pulls on the shared electron(s) harder and becomes slightly negative, acting as an anion. It's like sharing your pizza with someone else but still holding onto most of it yourself.

Salt Bridge: In electrochemistry, this is a laboratory device used to connect the oxidation and reduction half-cells of a galvanic cell (a type of battery), allowing ion flow without extensive mixing of different solutions. Anions move towards the positive electrode through this bridge – think about it as if they’re drawn towards their favorite band playing on stage!



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.