AFOQT Practice Test

What charge do cations carry?

1. Negative

2. Neutral

3. Positive

4. Variable

The correct answer is: Positive

Cations carry a positive charge. This is because a cation is formed when an atom loses one or more electrons. Electrons carry a negative charge, and when they are lost, there is an excess of positive charge from the protons, resulting in a net positive charge for the atom. This characteristic is fundamental in understanding ionic compounds, where cations pair with anions (negatively charged ions) to form stable structures. The distinction between the charges of ions is crucial in many areas of chemistry and physics, helping to explain interactions within molecules and the behavior of elements in various reactions.