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  • Hydrogen Ions: Cation or Anion? Understanding Hydrogen's Dual Role
    Hydrogen can act as both a cation and an anion, depending on the chemical environment.

    * Cation: When hydrogen loses its only electron, it becomes a positively charged ion, H⁺. This is common in acidic solutions, where hydrogen ions are released.

    * Anion: When hydrogen gains an electron, it becomes a negatively charged ion, H⁻ (hydride ion). This is less common but occurs in certain compounds, such as lithium hydride (LiH).

    So, it's not a simple yes or no answer. Hydrogen's behavior depends on the specific chemical context.

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