Question

level 5
a neutral atom becomes a positive ion when it
a. gains an electron
b. gains a proton
c. loses a proton
d. loses an electron

Explanation:

A neutral atom has equal numbers of protons (positive charge) and electrons (negative charge). When it loses an electron, the number of protons exceeds the number of electrons, resulting in a positive charge. Gaining an electron would make it negative (A is wrong). Protons are in the nucleus and are not easily lost or gained in normal ion - formation (B and C are wrong).

Answer:

D. Loses an electron