Question

multiple choice question
lons always have
o the same number of protons as electrons
o an unequal number of protons and electrons
o the same number of electrons as neutrons
o an unequal number of protons and neutrons
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Explanation:

An ion is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost one or more electrons. Protons have a positive charge and electrons have a negative charge. In a neutral atom, the number of protons equals the number of electrons. But when an atom becomes an ion (by losing or gaining electrons), the number of protons and electrons is no longer equal. For example, a sodium atom (Na) has 11 protons and 11 electrons (neutral). When it loses one electron to become a sodium ion (Na⁺), it has 11 protons and 10 electrons. The number of protons and neutrons in an ion is not necessarily unequal (e.g., in some isotopes of ions, protons and neutrons can be equal in number). And the relationship between electrons and neutrons in an ion is not a defining characteristic.

Answer:

an unequal number of protons and electrons