Ion
An ion is an atom or molecule that has a net electrical charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons. Here are some key points about ions:
- Types of Ions: There are two main types of ions:
- Cations: Positively charged ions formed by the loss of electrons. Examples include sodium ions (Na+) and hydrogen ions (H+).
- Anions: Negatively charged ions formed by the gain of electrons. Examples include chloride ions (Cl-) and oxide ions (O2-).
- Formation: Ions are formed through various processes:
- Ionization - When an atom gains or loses electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.
- Electrolysis - The passage of electric current through a solution or molten salt, leading to ion separation.
- Role in Chemistry:
- History:
- The concept of ions was introduced by Michael Faraday in the 19th century when he studied electrolysis.
- Further development came with Svante Arrhenius who proposed the theory of electrolytic dissociation, which explains how ions are produced in solution.
- Applications:
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