Ion
EYE-on
/ˈaɪɒn/
An atom or molecule that has a net electrical charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons.
Ions are crucial for electrical conductivity in solutions and play vital roles in biological processes.
The story behind the word. The term 'ion' was coined in 1834 by the English physicist and chemist Michael Faraday. He derived it from the Ancient Greek word 'ion,' which is the present participle of 'ienai,' meaning 'to go.' Faraday chose this name because ions are the particles that 'go' or move towards the electrodes during electrolysis, carrying electric current.
Word relationships
- Charged particle: More general; can refer to any particle with a charge, not just atoms or molecules.
- Neutral atom: An atom with no net electrical charge.
- Neutral molecule: A molecule with no net electrical charge.
Commonly confused with
- Atom: An 'atom' is electrically neutral, having equal protons and electrons. An 'ion' is an atom (or molecule) that has gained or lost electrons, giving it a net electrical charge.
Word family
- ionic (adjective): Relating to or involving ions.
- ionization (noun): The process of forming ions.
Collocations
- positive ion
- negative ion
- hydrogen ion
- metal ion
- ion channel
Example sentences
- "When table salt dissolves in water, it separates into positively charged sodium ions and negatively charged chloride ions." Sodium chloride dissolves into ions.
- "The movement of potassium and sodium ions across cell membranes is fundamental to the transmission of nerve impulses." Ions are essential for nerve impulses.
Memory hook
Think of 'ion' as a particle that's 'on the go' because of its charge, moving towards an electrode. On the go
When not to use
Do not confuse an 'ion' with a neutral atom or molecule; the defining characteristic of an ion is its electrical charge.
Fun facts
- Michael Faraday, who coined 'ion,' also introduced other fundamental terms like 'electrode,' 'anode,' and 'cathode.'
- Ions are essential for life, playing roles in everything from muscle contraction to brain function.
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