Ions: Atoms Gaining and Losing Electrons

Ions: Atoms Gaining and Losing Electrons

Year 10 Science Understanding Chemical Bonding New Zealand Curriculum

What holds salt crystals together?

Think about table salt (NaCl) What forces keep the particles connected? Have you ever wondered why salt dissolves in water?

What are Ions?

Ions are atoms that have gained or lost electrons They carry an electric charge (positive or negative) Form when atoms want to become more stable Essential for many chemical reactions

Cations vs Anions

{"left":"Cations: Positively charged ions\nForm when atoms LOSE electrons\nMetals typically form cations\nExample: Na⁺ (sodium ion)","right":"Anions: Negatively charged ions\nForm when atoms GAIN electrons\nNon-metals typically form anions\nExample: Cl⁻ (chloride ion)"}

Model Building Activity

Use model kits to build Na and Cl atoms Show electron transfer from Na to Cl Create Na⁺ and Cl⁻ ions Discuss what you observe with your partner

Sodium and Chlorine: Electron Transfer

Ions in Everyday Life

Table salt (NaCl) - sodium and chloride ions Sports drinks contain electrolytes (various ions) Baking soda (NaHCO₃) contains sodium ions Our bodies need ions for nerve signals Water treatment uses ions to purify water

Key Takeaway

"Ions are the charged particles that make chemistry happen around us every day - from the salt on our food to the signals in our nerves."