A charged molecule, also known as an ion, is a molecular species that carries an electrical charge due to the gain or loss of one or more electrons. It is formed when an atom (or a group of atoms) either donates or receives electrons, leading to an imbalance between the number of protons and electrons. This imbalance causes the charged molecule to possess either a positive or negative charge.
Positively charged molecules, called cations, are formed when an atom loses one or more electrons, resulting in an excess of protons. This loss of electrons creates an overall positive charge on the molecule. On the other hand, negatively charged molecules, known as anions, are formed when an atom gains one or more electrons, resulting in an excess of electrons compared to protons. This gain of electrons gives the molecule an overall negative charge.
Charged molecules play critical roles in various chemical and biological processes. They participate in electrochemical reactions, such as redox reactions, by transferring electrons between reactants. Moreover, they are involved in the formation of ionic compounds through ionic bonding, where oppositely charged ions attract each other and form a stable lattice structure. Charged molecules also play essential roles in maintaining the balance of charges in biological systems, such as in nerve impulse transmission and cellular communication.
In summary, a charged molecule is a molecular species with an electrical charge resulting from an imbalance in the number of protons and electrons. It can either be a positively charged cation or a negatively charged anion, depending on whether it loses or gains electrons, respectively.
