Cations

Definition

Cations are positively charged ions formed when an atom loses one or more electrons. They have more protons than electrons, resulting in a net positive charge.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cations are typically formed by metals, which have few valence electrons that they can easily lose.
2. The process of forming a cation is known as ionization.
3. Common cations include Na$^+$ (sodium ion), Ca$^{2+}$ (calcium ion), and Al$^{3+}$ (aluminum ion).
4. In chemical formulas, the charge of cations is indicated with a superscript after the element symbol, such as Fe$^{3+}$.
5. Cations play crucial roles in various chemical reactions, including ionic bonding where they pair with anions to form compounds.

Review Questions

• What is a cation and how is it formed?
• Give three examples of common cations and their charges.
• Explain why metals are more likely to form cations than non-metals.

Related terms

Anion: Negatively charged ions formed when an atom gains one or more electrons.

Ionization Energy:

The amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom or molecule to form a cation.

Ionic Bond: A type of chemical bond that occurs between oppositely charged ions, such as between a cation and an anion.