* Atomic Structure: An oxygen atom has 8 protons (positively charged) and 8 electrons (negatively charged).
* Equal Charges: The number of protons (positive charges) and electrons (negative charges) are equal, leading to a balanced charge. Since the positive and negative charges cancel each other out, the overall charge of the atom is zero.
However, oxygen can gain or lose electrons to form ions:
* Anion: If an oxygen atom gains two electrons, it becomes an oxide ion (O²⁻) with a charge of -2.
* Cation: It is extremely rare for oxygen to lose electrons and form a cation.
So, while a neutral oxygen atom has a charge of zero, it can participate in chemical reactions and form ions with a negative charge.
