When a neutral atom loses one or more electrons, the total number of electrons _____________while the number of protons in the nucleus remains the same. The result is that the atom becomes a c___________—an ion with a net positive charge.
The opposite process can also occur. When a neutral atom gains one or more electrons, the total number of electrons _____________ while the number of protons in the nucleus remains the same. The result is that the atom becomes an a_____________—an ion with a net negative charge.
