Cations are positively charged ions formed when an atom loses one or more electrons. They have more protons than electrons, resulting in a net positive charge.
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Cations are typically formed by metals, which have few valence electrons that they can easily lose.
The process of forming a cation is known as ionization.
Common cations include Na$^+$ (sodium ion), Ca$^{2+}$ (calcium ion), and Al$^{3+}$ (aluminum ion).
In chemical formulas, the charge of cations is indicated with a superscript after the element symbol, such as Fe$^{3+}$.
Cations play crucial roles in various chemical reactions, including ionic bonding where they pair with anions to form compounds.
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Related terms
Anion: Negatively charged ions formed when an atom gains one or more electrons.