Chemistry HESI A2 Practice Test Related

Review Chemistry HESI A2 Practice Test related questions and content

What is the term used when an atom gains one or more electrons?

  • A. Cation
  • B. Anion
  • C. Isotope
  • D. Electron
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged and is called an anion. An anion is formed when an atom gains one or more electrons, leading to an excess of negative charge.
Choice A, 'Cation,' is incorrect because a cation is formed when an atom loses electrons, resulting in a positively charged ion. Choice C, 'Isotope,' refers to atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons and is not related to gaining electrons. Choice D, 'Electron,' is the particle that an atom gains to become an anion, not the term for the atom itself after gaining electrons.