Here's why:
* Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter. They are electrically neutral, meaning they have an equal number of positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons.
* Ions are formed when an atom gains or loses electrons.
* If an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged and is called an anion.
* If an atom loses electrons, it becomes positively charged and is called a cation.
The difference between the number of protons and electrons in an ion is called its charge. For example, a sodium ion (Na+) has lost one electron and has a +1 charge. A chloride ion (Cl-) has gained one electron and has a -1 charge.
