When a potassium atom loses one electron, it forms a positively charged ion (a cation). Here's why:

* Neutral Atom: A potassium atom has 19 protons (positive charge) and 19 electrons (negative charge), making it electrically neutral.

* Losing an Electron: When a potassium atom loses one electron, it now has 19 protons and 18 electrons. This means there is one more positive charge than negative charge.

* Positive Charge: The net charge of the ion is +1, denoted as K⁺.