TEAS 7 practice test science Related

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What happens when an atom loses an electron?

  • A. It forms a molecule.
  • B. It gains a positive charge and becomes an ion.
  • C. It alters its elemental identity.
  • D. No change occurs; it remains neutral.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When an atom loses an electron, it gains a positive charge and becomes an ion. This occurs because the number of protons in the atom exceeds the number of electrons, leading to a positive charge. Therefore, the atom undergoes a transformation into an ion by losing an electron. Choice A is incorrect because losing an electron does not result in the formation of a molecule, as molecules are made up of bonded atoms. Choice C is incorrect because losing an electron does not change the fundamental identity of the atom; it only changes its charge. Choice D is incorrect because losing an electron causes the atom to become positively charged, altering its neutrality.