MONATOMIC ION Meaning and
Definition
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A monatomic ion refers to an ion that is composed of only a single atom. In chemical terms, an ion can be defined as an atom or group of atoms that has an unequal number of protons and electrons, resulting in a positive or negative charge. A monatomic ion, as the name suggests, consists of a solitary atom that has gained or lost electrons, thereby acquiring a net positive or negative charge.
The formation of monatomic ions is typically observed when an atom gains or loses electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, resembling that of a noble gas. When an atom loses electrons, it becomes positively charged and is called a cation. Conversely, when an atom gains electrons, it attains a net negative charge and is identified as an anion.
Monatomic ions play a crucial role in chemical reactions and the formation of compounds. Their charges allow them to interact with oppositely charged ions or other compounds, forming ionic bonds. These bonds form when cations and anions are attracted to each other due to their opposite charges. For instance, the monatomic ion sodium (Na+) can combine with the monatomic ion chloride (Cl-) to form the compound sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt.
In summary, a monatomic ion is an ion consisting of only one atom that possesses a positive or negative charge, resulting from the gain or loss of electrons. These ions are essential building blocks for the formation of chemical compounds through the process of ionic bonding.
Etymology of MONATOMIC ION
The word "monatomic ion" is derived from its two main components: "monatomic" and "ion".
1. Monatomic: The term "monatomic" comes from the Latin prefix "mono-" meaning "one" or "single", and the Greek word "atomos" meaning "indivisible" or "uncuttable". In chemistry, an atom is referred to as monatomic when it exists as a single atom and is not connected with other atoms.
2. Ion: The word "ion" originates from the Greek word "ion", which means "going" or "moving". In chemistry, an ion refers to an atom or a group of atoms that has gained or lost electrons, resulting in a positive or negative charge.
When these terms are combined, "monatomic ion" refers to a single atom or an indivisible group of atoms that has a net charge due to the loss or gain of electrons.
