Define the terms "anion" and "cation."

An anion is a negatively charged ion, meaning it has gained one or more electrons. Anions are typically formed when atoms gain electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.

A cation is a positively charged ion, meaning it has lost one or more electrons. Cations are typically formed when atoms lose electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.

Anion

- An anion is a negatively charged ion.
- It is formed when an atom or molecule gains one or more electrons.
- Examples of anions include chloride (Cl-), oxygen (O2-), and phosphate (PO43-).

Cation

- A cation is a positively charged ion.
- It is formed when an atom or molecule loses one or more electrons.
- Examples of cations include sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), and calcium (Ca2+).