What is the difference between an Atom and an Ion?

An atom has the same number of protons and electrons so an atom has no overall electric charge.

If an atom loses or gains electrons it becomes an ion.

An ion is either positive or negative because it has an electric charge.

PW
Answered by Phoebe W. Chemistry tutor

16745 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Form the equation for the complete burning of C3H8


Why does Sodium Chloride have high melting point?


How does an increase in temperature affect the rate of a reaction?


What is the difference between a polar molecule and a non-polar molecule? Can non-polar molecules be formed by polar atoms?


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences