
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 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 - Properties, Symbols and Formation | CK-12 Foundation
Jan 1, 2026 · 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 …
The Difference Between a Cation and an Anion - ThoughtCo
Aug 3, 2024 · When writing the formula of a compound, the cation is listed before the anion. For example, in NaCl, the sodium atom acts as the cation, while the chlorine atom acts as the anion.
Cation - Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The opposite of a cation is an anion, which has a negative charge. Cations can have only one atom (monatomic cations) or be made of multiple atoms together (polyatomic cations).
CATION | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary
CATION definition: 1. in chemistry, an ion (= type of atom) that has a positive electric charge and therefore moves…. Learn more.
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 …
Anion vs Cation - Difference and Comparison | Diffen
An anion is an ion that is negatively charged, and is attracted to the anode (positive electrode) in electrolysis. A cation has a net positive charge, and is attracted to the cathode (negative electrode) …