Which particle is removed from a neutral atom to form a positive ion?

Which particle is removed from a neutral atom to form a positive ion?

• A. Proton
• B. Neutron
• C. Nucleus
• D. Electron

Answer: (D)

To form a positive ion, the particle that must be removed is the electron. In a neutral atom, electrons balance the positive charge of the protons in the nucleus. Take away some electrons, and the balance tips toward the positive side, giving the atom a net positive charge. Removing protons would change the element itself, not just its charge, and removing neutrons changes mass without affecting charge. The nucleus isn’t removed in typical ionization. So, eliminating electrons creates the positive ion.

To form a positive ion, the particle that must be removed is the electron. In a neutral atom, electrons balance the positive charge of the protons in the nucleus. Take away some electrons, and the balance tips toward the positive side, giving the atom a net positive charge. Removing protons would change the element itself, not just its charge, and removing neutrons changes mass without affecting charge. The nucleus isn’t removed in typical ionization. So, eliminating electrons creates the positive ion.