Ion (chemistry), particle formed when a neutral atom or group of atoms gains or loses one or more electrons. An atom that loses an electron forms a positively charged ion, called a cation; an atom that gains an electron forms a negatively charged ion, called an anion. Atoms can be converted to ions by radiation such as X rays or light of sufficient energy. This kind of radiation is thus called ionizing radiation. See Ionization.
Matter is composed of atoms or groups of atoms called molecules. The arrangement of particles in a material depends on the physical state of the substance. In a solid, particles form a compact structure that resists flow. Particles in a liquid have more energy than those in a solid. They can flow past one another, but they remain close. Particles in a gas have the most energy. They move rapidly and are separated from one another by relatively large distances.
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