Understanding Positively Charged Ions

In chemistry, ions are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost one or more electrons, resulting in a net electrical charge.

Defining Ion Types

• Cation: An ion with a positive charge. This happens when an atom loses electrons. For example, a sodium atom (Na) losing one electron becomes a sodium cation (Na⁺).
• Anion: An ion with a negative charge. This occurs when an atom gains electrons. For example, a chlorine atom (Cl) gaining one electron becomes a chloride anion (Cl^-).

Identifying the Term

Based on these definitions, a positively charged ion is specifically referred to as a cation.