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What term describes negatively charged ions?

  1. Cations

  2. Anions

  3. Neutrons

  4. Protons

The correct answer is: Anions

The correct term that describes negatively charged ions is anions. Anions are formed when atoms gain one or more electrons, resulting in a net negative charge. This process occurs during chemical reactions, especially when nonmetals interact with metals. Cations, in contrast, are positively charged ions formed when atoms lose electrons. Neutrons are neutral subatomic particles found in atomic nuclei and do not carry any electrical charge, while protons are positively charged particles also located in the atomic nucleus. Understanding these terms is crucial in various scientific fields, including chemistry and biology, as they play significant roles in chemical bonding and reactions.