* Atoms are normally neutral: Atoms have an equal number of protons (positive charge) and electrons (negative charge), making them electrically neutral.
* Losing electrons: When an atom loses electrons, it loses negative charges. This leaves it with more protons than electrons, resulting in a net positive charge.
* Ions: Atoms that have gained or lost electrons are called ions. A positively charged ion is called a cation.
Example: A neutral sodium atom (Na) has 11 protons and 11 electrons. If it loses one electron, it becomes a sodium ion (Na+) with 11 protons and 10 electrons, giving it a +1 charge.
