What's the difference between an atom and an ion?

Atoms and ions are both made up of proton's and neutrons in the nucleus with electrons orbiting around. The difference is atom's have equal number of proton's and electrons while ions have more or less electrons than proton's (for a given element).

OB
Answered by Oliver B. Chemistry tutor

8879 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain dynamic equilibrium?


What type of bonding would be in NaCl?


Draw a carbon dioxide molecule and describe the bonding?


Why does Iodine have a higher boiling point than chlorine?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning