Question

When a neutral atom loses an electron, it is called _____ and when it gains an electron, it is called _____.

• A. anion, anion
• B. cation, cation
• C. cation, anion
• D. anion, cation

Answer 1

The correct option is C cation, anion

Cation is the name given to the positive ion of an element when it loses electrons. For example:
$\text{Na}\to {\text{Na}}^{+}+{\text{e}}^{-}$

An anion is the name given to the negative ion of an element when it gain electrons and acquires a negative charge. For example:
$\text{Cl}+{\text{e}}^{-}\to {\text{Cl}}^{-}$