Question

which of these statements accurately describes the ions formed when atoms interact through chemical reactions? a when atoms gain electrons, they form cations because they have more electrons than protons. b nonmetals tend to form cations when they interact with other elements through chemical reactions. c metals generally form cations that carry a positive charge as they lose electrons. d anions carry a positive charge because they lose electrons during chemical reactions.

Explanation:

• Option A: Atoms that gain electrons have more electrons than protons, forming anions (negative charge), not cations. So A is incorrect.
• Option B: Nonmetals tend to gain electrons and form anions (negative charge), while metals tend to form cations. So B is incorrect.
• Option C: Metals have low electronegativity and tend to lose electrons. When they lose electrons, the number of protons (positive charge) is greater than electrons (negative charge), so they form positively - charged cations. This statement is correct.
• Option D: Anions are formed when atoms gain electrons, so they have more electrons than protons and carry a negative charge, not a positive charge. So D is incorrect.

Answer:

C. Metals generally form cations that carry a positive charge as they lose electrons.