Ions are formed when a neutral atom or molecule gains or loses one or more electrons, creating an imbalance between the number of protons and electrons. Atoms that lose electrons become positively charged cations (like a sodium atom forming a sodium ion, Na⁺), while atoms that gain electrons become negatively charged anions (like a chlorine atom forming a chloride ion, Cl⁻). How Atoms Become Ions Gain or Loss of Electrons: The most common way for ions to form is through the transfer of electrons

BONDING TIME: Video has been released of an eight-day-old hippo bonding with its mom at a zoo in Mexico. The calf was born on July 13 and appears to be healthy. Zookeepers haven't been able to determine the calf's gender because it's sticking so close to mom. | KION News Channel 46