Ion

An ion is an electrically charged particle, a form of atom or molecule. By losing or gaining electrons, an atom or molecule moves from a neutral state to a charged state. Cations carry a positive charge; examples include sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), and calcium (Ca²⁺). Anions, on the other hand, carry a negative charge; examples include chloride (Cl⁻) and sulfate (SO₄²⁻). Ions play an important role in chemical reactions and biological processes, and they influence the properties and reactivity of many substances.