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Humans and potatoes both have 46 chromosomes. For more information, see: For a lesson about this topic, see: |
When atoms have an equal number of protons and electrons, they are neutral and have no electrical charge. However, both man-made and natural forces can act on atoms and result in a gain or loss of electrons.
When a neutral atom has lost an electron (which is negatively charged), the positively charged protons now outnumber the electrons, giving the atom a positive charge. The now positively charged atom is called a positive ion, or a cation.
When a neutral atom has gained an electron (which is negatively charged), the electrons now outnumber the positively charged protons, giving the atom a negative charge. The now negatively charged atom is called a negative ion, or an anion.
There are several forms of energy that can force atoms to give up electrons. These include:
- Chemical Energy
- Electrical Energy
- Heat Energy
- Mechanical Energy
- Nuclear Energy
- Ionizing Radiation