Question

question 18 of 25
what happens when a sodium atom loses an electron in its outer energy shell?
a. it has an increase in the number of protons.
b. it becomes a positive ion.
c. it becomes a negative ion.
d. it has an increase in the number of neutrons.

Explanation:

Atoms are neutral with equal number of protons and electrons. When sodium loses an electron, it has more protons (+ charge) than electrons (- charge), becoming a positive ion called a cation. Protons and neutrons are not affected by losing an outer - shell electron.

Answer:

B. It becomes a positive ion.