* 2 Electrons: Helium has an atomic number of 2, meaning it has 2 protons and 2 electrons in its neutral state.
* Plus Ion: When a helium atom loses an electron, it becomes a positively charged ion (He+).
However, it's important to note that Helium is very stable and rarely forms ions. It's a noble gas, meaning it has a full outer electron shell and doesn't readily gain or lose electrons.