Atoms with Electrical Charge

What is an atom with an electrical charge?

1. Isotope

2. Compound

3. Water

4. Ion

Answer: Ion

Based on the descriptions of each choice:

1. Isotope is a group of atoms that belong to the same element but differ in their mass numbers. Each element has a specific value of atomic numbers, representing the number of protons in the atom, but they may differ in the number of neutrons in the nucleus.

2. Compound is a combination of at least two elements bonded together by intermolecular forces like ionic or covalent bonding, electrostatic forces, and London dispersion forces.

3. Water is a compound made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.

4. Ions are atoms of elements that are not neutral as they readily accept or gain electrons from other elements, existing as cations (positively charged ions) or anions (negatively charged ions).

Therefore, the answer to the atom with an electrical charge is an ion.

In the world of chemistry, atoms play a crucial role in the composition of matter. Understanding the concept of ions is fundamental to comprehending the behavior of elements in chemical reactions. An ion is an atom that has a net electric charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons.

When an atom loses electrons, it becomes positively charged and is called a cation. On the other hand, when an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged and is known as an anion. This process of forming ions is essential for creating chemical bonds and interactions between elements.

For example, in the formation of table salt (sodium chloride), sodium atoms lose an electron to become a positively charged ion (Na+), while chlorine atoms gain an electron to become a negatively charged ion (Cl-). The attraction between these oppositely charged ions results in the formation of the salt compound.

Moreover, ions play a vital role in various biological processes within living organisms. From nerve transmissions to muscle contractions, the movement of ions across cell membranes is essential for maintaining proper physiological functions.

Overall, understanding ions and their role in chemistry opens up a world of possibilities for exploring the interactions between elements and the intriguing nature of matter at the atomic level.