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ria0606 · Sep 14, 2006, 02:27 PM

What type of ion is formed when a neutral atom gains an electron?

J_9 · Sep 14, 2006, 02:29 PM

Do you have an idea? Let us know and we can help, but we can't do homework for you. I just had this chemistry last year, so I can help guide, but in good faith can't give the answer.

Curlyben · Sep 14, 2006, 02:33 PM

Well I'm POSITIVE I know what it is ;)

rudi_in · Sep 14, 2006, 06:23 PM

Hmmm,

Well I am positive I know the answer too. Let me clarify this.

If we recall that:

1. protons are positively charged
2. electrons are negatively charged
3. neutral atoms have the same number of protons and electrons

Think through this carefully now,

You start with the same number of plusses and minuses
What will happen to the charge on the atom when we gain additional minuses?
Which one do we have more of?
How many more?

Now think of this in terms of math...

Start with an atom that has

17+ (protons)
17- (electrons)

If this atom gets another electron...

We get...

17+
18-

If I do the math I will get 1-

Therefore the atom will become negatively charged when it gains an electron.

This is called an anion.

While I agree with how homework questions should be handled, I wanted to provide answers here because I fear that we may mislead you this time.
Next time, ria0606, give us your thoughts too.

rudi_in · Oct 21, 2006, 09:47 PM

No

The ion is negatively charged. (1-)

If an atom is neutral to begin with it means there are the same number of positive and negative particles associated with it.

If the atom picks up a NEGATIVELY charged electron, it now has more negative particles than positive particles giving it an overall negative charge.

areen · Oct 21, 2006, 09:59 PM

Originally Posted by rudi_in

No

The ion is negatively charged. (1-)

If an atom is neutral to begin with it means there are the same number of positive and negative particles associated with it.

If the atom picks up a NEGATIVELY charged electron, it now has more negative particles than positive particles giving it an overall negative charge.

Oh yeah! Sorry forgot my grade 10 rules... the ion charge or sign is supposed to show the amount you should add or remove to change it back to its original.. sorry!