Question

When an oxygen atom forms an ion, it gains two electrons. What is the electrical charge of the oxygen ion?

A.
-2

B.
+2

C.
-1

D.
+1

Answer 1

\(atoms\) are neutrally charged, meaning the number of protons equals the number of electrons.

electrons are negatively charged, so \(gaining\) electrons is the same as \(gaining\) negative charge.

(protons don't change in these situations, ever!

Answer 2

A