* The atom gets smaller. This is because the loss of an electron reduces the electron cloud's overall negative charge. This, in turn, weakens the electrostatic repulsion between the remaining electrons and the nucleus. The electrons are pulled closer to the nucleus, resulting in a smaller atomic radius.
In summary:
* Neutral atom: Balanced number of protons and electrons, relatively larger size.
* Cation: More protons than electrons, smaller size due to stronger attraction between electrons and nucleus.
