| 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. |