Question

An ion is an atom with a net electrical charge due to ______.

Answer 1

the loss of one or more electrons & the addition of one of more electrons

Answer 2

Explanation:

Loss of one or more electrons by a neutral atom will help the neutral atom to acquire a positive charge.

For example, atomic number of sodium is 11 and to stabilize itself it needs to lose one electron. So, by losing an electron it will change into $Na^{+}$ ion.

On the other hand, gain of one or more electrons by a neutral atom will help the neutral atom to acquire a negative charge.

For example, Cl has atomic number 17 and to fill its octet completely it need one more electron. So, by gaining an electron is will change into $Cl^{-}$ ion.

Therefore, we can conclude that an ion is an atom with a net electrical charge due to loss or gain of electrons.