* Positive ions (cations): These ions are formed when an atom *loses* electrons. Losing electrons reduces the overall negative charge of the electron cloud, making the positive charge of the nucleus more dominant. This results in a smaller ionic radius compared to the neutral atom.
* Negative ions (anions): These ions are formed when an atom *gains* electrons. Gaining electrons increases the overall negative charge of the electron cloud, leading to greater repulsion among electrons and a larger ionic radius compared to the neutral atom.
Therefore, the answer is D. None of the above.**
Only negative ions (anions) are always larger than the neutral atoms from which they formed.