Chemistry, cations and anions

  • Thread starter gmianosi
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In summary, an atom becomes a cation when it loses electrons and an anion when it gains electrons. The atom will always try to minimize its energy, so if it has 1 electron in its valence shell, it will become a cation, while if it has 6 electrons, it will become an anion. However, when an atom has 4 electrons in its outer shell, it can either lose or gain electrons depending on the specific element and its surroundings. This is more complex than what is described in a chemistry text, as some elements like carbon and silicon can form both positive and negative ions, but in reality they mostly form covalent compounds. It is important to note that an ion is formed when an atom
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gmianosi
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Homework Statement


When does an atom become a cation and an anion?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



Cations have a positive charge because they lose electrons, and anions have a negative charge because they gain ions. The atom would always want to do what requires the least energy, like if it has 1 electron in its valence shell, it will give it away, becoming a cation, while if it has 6 electrons in it valence shell, it will gain 2, becoming an anion. So basically, if an atom has over 4 electrons in its outer shell, it will become an anion, and if it has under 4, it will become a cation. Now my confusion is, what if it has 4 electrons in it's valence shell.. Like Silicon, does it lose them or gain 4?

I am only referring to when there are 8 electrons in the valence shell.
 
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  • #2
Atoms like carbon and silicon are pretty difficult to ionize. Even nitrogen and boron don't ionize very easily.
 
  • #3
But still, how does silicon ionize? the question is asking me to ionize silicon and lead.. both have 4 electrons in their valence shell
 
  • #4
Well, reality is a little more complicated than your chemistry text. I think lead usually goes +2 or + 4. Silicon, I don't know. I don't know of any ionic silicon materials. The most common form in nature is silicon dioxide, which suggests +4, but I believe it's actually covalent, not ionic.
 
  • #5
The chemistry text is probably wanting you to show that they can do both. Carbon can go to positive or negative depending on what it is with. However in reality it does mostly form covalent compounds as opposed to ionic ones. Oh and it is electrons that it gains or looses not ions. It BECOMES and ion when it has a charge by loosing or gaining ELECTRONS important distinction. I wouldn't give you full credit for the explanation you use.
 

What is the difference between cations and anions?

Cations are positively charged ions, meaning they have more protons than electrons. Anions are negatively charged ions, meaning they have more electrons than protons. This charge difference is caused by the gain or loss of electrons during chemical reactions.

How are cations and anions formed?

Cations are formed when an atom loses one or more electrons, resulting in a positive charge. Anions are formed when an atom gains one or more electrons, resulting in a negative charge. This can occur through ionic bonding, where atoms transfer electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration.

What are some examples of cations and anions?

Some common cations include sodium (Na+), calcium (Ca2+), and aluminum (Al3+). Examples of anions include chloride (Cl-), oxide (O2-), and nitrate (NO3-). These ions are found in various compounds and play important roles in chemical reactions.

How do cations and anions affect the properties of compounds?

The presence of cations and anions in a compound can greatly influence its properties. Cations typically have smaller radii and higher charge, making them more attracted to anions and resulting in stronger ionic bonds. This can affect the melting and boiling points, solubility, and conductivity of the compound.

How are cations and anions used in everyday life?

Cations and anions are essential for many everyday products and processes. They are used in batteries, water treatment, fertilizers, and food additives. They also play important roles in biological systems, such as in nerve impulses and muscle contractions. Without cations and anions, many of the products and processes we rely on would not be possible.

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