Ionized

Ionized refers to the state of an atom or molecule that has gained or lost electrons, thus acquiring a net charge. This process is known as Ionization. Ionized atoms or molecules are often referred to as ions.

Types of Ionization[edit | edit source]

There are two types of ionization: positive and negative.

Positive Ionization: This occurs when an atom or molecule loses one or more electrons. The resulting ion is called a cation because it has a net positive charge.

Negative Ionization: This occurs when an atom or molecule gains one or more electrons. The resulting ion is called an anion because it has a net negative charge.

Ionization Process[edit | edit source]

The process of ionization can occur through various mechanisms, including collisional ionization, photoionization, and field ionization.

Collisional Ionization: This is the process where an atom or molecule is ionized due to a collision with another particle, such as an electron or another atom.

Photoionization: This is the process where an atom or molecule absorbs a photon of light and becomes ionized.

Field Ionization: This is the process where an atom or molecule is ionized in a strong electric field.

Effects of Ionization[edit | edit source]

Ionization has various effects on matter and is a fundamental process in many areas of science and technology, including chemistry, physics, and astronomy. It is also a key process in many technological applications, such as mass spectrometry, ion implantation, and ion thrusters.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Ionized Resources
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