Ions

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Ions are electrically charged particles formed when atoms lose or gain electrons. They have the same electronic structures as noble gases. Metal atoms form positive ions, while non-metal atoms form negative ions. The strong electrostatic forces of attraction between oppositely charged ions are called ionic bonds. How ions form Ions are electrically charged particles formed when atoms lose or gain electrons. This loss or gain leaves a complete highest energy level, so the electronic structure of an ion is the same as that of a noble gas - such as a helium, neon or argon. Metal atoms and non-metal atoms go in opposite directions when they ionise: • Metal atoms lose the electron, or electrons, in their highest energy level and become positively charged ions. • Non-metal atoms gain an electron, or electrons, from another atom to become negatively charged ions.

charged lose noble form strong attraction ions electrically atoms gain complete structure helium opposite • Metal positively electron become