Question

Define cation and anion

Answer 1

Ionic structures are formed by the loss or gain or electrons from the atoms of the elements. If there is loss of electrons and the electrons is removed the atom will have positive charge and it is known as cation, and if there is gain of electrons, atom will have positive charge and it is known as anion.

Complete step by step answer:
Now we will have discussion on cations and anions:
Ions which are a part of atoms formed from either the gain of a valence electron or loss of a valence electron from the atom which creates either positive or negative charge. Anions are the ions with negative charge and cations are the ions with positive charge. Because both of them have opposite charges and have opposing qualities, they get attracted to one another forming an ionic bond between them.
Cations:
The positively charged ions are called cations, formed when a metal loses its electrons. They lose one or more than one electron and do not lose any protons. Thus, they have a net positive charge. Some examples of cations are Calcium ($C{a^{2 + }}$), Potassium (${K^ + }$), Hydrogen (${H^ + }$).
Anions:
The negatively charged ions are called anions, formed when non-metal gains electrons. They gain one or more than one electron and do not lose any protons. Thus, they have a net negative charge. Some examples of anions are Iodide (${I^-}$), chlorine ($C{l^-}$), hydroxide ($O{H^-}$).

Note: Both Anions and cations are ions. They possess an opposite electrical charge, hence they get attracted to each other. Cation repels other cations whereas anion repels another anion. Cations have more number of protons than electrons and anions have more number of electrons than protons.