
Cations and Anions: Definitions, Examples, and Differences
Mar 3, 2020 · The chemical formula of a compound is always written with the cation first, followed by the anion. For example, Na is the cation and Cl is the anion in NaCl (table salt).
7.3: Cations - Chemistry LibreTexts
Summary Cations are formed by the loss of one or two electrons from an element. Groups 1 and 2 elements form cations. Cations are named according to the pare nt element. Cation charges are …
Cations and Anions - Ions | ChemTalk
A cation is an ion that has lost one or more electrons, giving a net positive charge. Because one or more electrons are removed to form a cation, the cation of an atom is smaller than the neutral atom.
Cation - Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Cation A cation is a type of ion that has a positive electric charge. [1] This means it has fewer electrons than protons. The opposite of a cation is an anion, which has a negative charge. Cations can have …
Cation vs Anion: Definition, Chart and the Periodic Table
Jan 24, 2024 · What is a cation? A cation has more protons than electrons, consequently giving it a net positive charge. For a cation to form, one or more electrons must be lost, typically pulled away by …
CATION | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary
CATION meaning: 1. in chemistry, an ion (= type of atom) that has a positive electric charge and therefore moves…. Learn more.
CATION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
The meaning of CATION is the ion in an electrolyzed solution that migrates to the cathode; broadly : a positively charged ion.
Cation Definition - Intro to Chemistry Key Term | Fiveable
A cation is a positively charged ion that results from the loss of one or more electrons by an atom or molecule. Cations are an essential concept in understanding chemical nomenclature and the periodic …
Cation Definition and Examples - ThoughtCo
May 5, 2019 · Cation definition, as used in chemistry, chemical engineering, and physics, along with examples.
Cation - Properties, Symbols and Formation | CK-12 Foundation
Dec 1, 2025 · Cations Sodium loses an electron to become a cation. Some elements lose one or more electrons in forming ions. These ions are known as “ cations ” because they are positively charged …