If an atom gains an electron, what does it become?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the process of an atom acquiring an electron and the resulting change in its charge. This is related to basic concepts in chemistry, specifically ion formation.
Answer
Anion
The final answer is it becomes an anion.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is it becomes an anion.
More Information
When an atom gains an electron, it becomes negatively charged because electrons carry a negative charge. This negatively charged ion is known as an anion.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse anions (negatively charged) with cations (positively charged). Remember, gain of electrons results in anions, while loss of electrons results in cations.
Sources
- 3.1.5: Ions - Losing and Gaining Electrons - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
- When an atom gains electrons, it becomes charged. - BYJU'S - byjus.com
- Q: When an atom gains an electron, what does it become? - CK-12 - ck12.org
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