Anions
Definition
Anions are negatively charged ions formed when an atom gains one or more electrons. They play crucial roles in various biological and chemical processes.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Anions are typically larger than their parent atoms due to the addition of one or more electrons.
- Common examples of anions include chloride (Cl-), sulfate (SO4^2-), and nitrate (NO3-).
- Anions are essential for maintaining the osmotic balance within cells and tissues.
- They often participate in ionic bonds, forming salts with positively charged cations.
- The formation of anions is a key concept in understanding acid-base chemistry and pH balance in biological systems.
Review Questions
- What causes an atom to become an anion?
- Provide two examples of biologically important anions.
- How do anions differ from their parent atoms in terms of size?
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Related terms
Cations: Positively charged ions formed when an atom loses one or more electrons.
Ionic Bond: A type of chemical bond formed between a cation and an anion.
Electronegativity: The tendency of an atom to attract electrons towards itself, influencing the formation of ions.
