IONIC CHARGE Meaning and
Definition
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Ionic charge refers to the electric charge possessed by an ion, which is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost electrons, resulting in an imbalance between the number of protons and electrons. An ionic charge can be positive or negative, indicating the net charge of the ion.
When an ion loses electrons, it develops a positive charge because the number of protons in its nucleus exceeds the number of electrons in its outermost energy level. For example, when a sodium atom loses one electron, it becomes a sodium ion (Na+), carrying a single positive charge.
On the other hand, when an ion gains electrons, it acquires a negative charge due to the excess of electrons compared to protons. For instance, when a chlorine atom gains one electron, it transforms into a chloride ion (Cl-), carrying a single negative charge.
The ionic charge is crucial in determining the chemical properties of an ion and its behavior in chemical reactions. Ions with opposite charges are attracted to each other and may form ionic compounds through electrostatic interactions, leading to the creation of ionic bonds. Additionally, the magnitude of the ionic charge affects the strength of these attractions.
The ionic charge is generally denoted through the use of superscripts or subscripts, indicating the charge value and the sign (+/-) respectively. These charges are vital for balancing chemical equations and understanding the behavior of various elements and compounds in a wide range of scientific fields, including chemistry, biochemistry, and physics.
Common Misspellings for IONIC CHARGE
- uonic charge
- jonic charge
- konic charge
- oonic charge
- 9onic charge
- 8onic charge
- iinic charge
- iknic charge
- ilnic charge
- ipnic charge
- i0nic charge
- i9nic charge
- iobic charge
- iomic charge
- iojic charge
- iohic charge
- ionuc charge
- ionjc charge
- ionkc charge
Etymology of IONIC CHARGE
The word "ionic" in "ionic charge" derives from "ion", which comes from the Greek word "ἰών" (ion), meaning "going" or "wandering". The concept of "ion" was introduced by the English scientist Michael Faraday in the early 19th century. He used the term to describe particles that transfer electric charges in solution. The term "charge" originates from the Old French word "charger" meaning "to load" or "to fill", which ultimately comes from the Medieval Latin word "carricare" meaning "to load". When combined, "ionic charge" refers to the electric charge carried by ions.
Similar spelling words for IONIC CHARGE
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