Ions are Charged Atoms

• IONS are atoms or groups of atoms with a positive (+) or negative (–) charge.
• Taking away an electron from an atom gives a cation with a positive charge.
• More protons in nucleus versus electrons surrounding nucleus

– Metals tend to form cations to achieve the “full shell” look.

• Adding an electron to an atom gives an anion with a negative charge.
• Fewer protons in the nucleus versus electrons surrounding nucleus

– Nonmetals tend to form anions to achieve the “full shell” look.