Question

How can I calculate the net charge of an ion?

Answer 1

Hint In order to calculate a net charge of an ion we must first know what a net charge is. Net charge is said to a charge that is present on an atom or ion in a molecule. Net charge present in a molecule is also known as the electric charge.

Complete step by step solution:
- An atom will be having subatomic particles present in it. These subatomic particles include protons, electrons and neutrons.
- The number of protons present in an atom is responsible for the positive charge of the atom. The number of electrons present in an atom is responsible for the negative charge of the atom. When the number of protons present is greater than the number of electrons in an atom, then the atom is a cation, i.e., the ion or atom will be having a positive net charge.
- When the number of electrons is greater than the number of protons present, then it is called an anion, i.e., the ion or atom will be having a negative net charge.
- When the number of protons and electrons present are equal, then the net charge present in the atom or ion is neutral net charge.

Note: We have to remember that according to the law of conservation of charge, the charge present in an atom or ions cannot be created or destroyed but can be transferred from one body to another body.