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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.