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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Positive and Negative Ion?

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The difference between positive and negative ions lies in their charge and formation process.

Positive Ions:

  • Carry a positive electrical charge.
  • Form when an atom or molecule loses one or more electrons.
  • Also known as cations.
  • Example: If an atom has more protons than electrons, it becomes a positive ion.

Negative Ions:

  • Carry a negative electrical charge.
  • Form when an atom or molecule gains one or more electrons.
  • Also known as anions.
  • Example: If an atom has more electrons than protons, it becomes a negative ion.

In summary, positive ions have more protons than electrons, while negative ions have more electrons than protons.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Positive and Negative Ion?
  • Comparative Table: Positive vs Negative Ion

    • Comparative Table: Positive vs Negative Ion

    Here is a table comparing the differences between positive and negative ions:

    Feature Positive Ions (Cations) Negative Ions (Anions)
    Definition An atom or molecule that has lost one or more electrons, resulting in a positive net charge An atom or molecule that has gained one or more electrons, resulting in a negative net charge
    Net Charge Positive Negative
    Electron-Proton Ratio More protons than electrons More electrons than protons
    Ionization Endothermic process Exothermic process
    Electrode During Electrolysis Attracted to the anode Attracted to the cathode
    Ionic Radius (trend across a period) Decreases from left to right Negative ions are always larger than positive ions in the same period
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.