ong>Explanation:

An ion is an ATOM or group of atoms in which the number of electrons is not equal to the number of protons, giving it a net positive or negative electrical charge. An anion is an ion that is negatively charged, and is ATTRACTED to the anode (positive electrode) in electrolysis. A cation has a net positive charge, and is attracted to the cathode (negative electrode) during electrolysis.

Comparison chart

Anion versus Cation comparison chart

Anion Cation

Definition An anion is an atom or a MOLECULE which is negatively charged, i.e. has more number of electrons than protons. A cation is an atom or a molecule which is positively charged, i.e. has more number of protons than electrons.

Charge Negative Positive

Examples (O2-), sulfide (S2-), fluoride (F-), chloride (Cl-), bromide (BR-), iodide (I-), nitride (N3-) and hydride (H-) sodium (Na+), Iron (Fe2+), and Lead (Pb2+)

Etymology The Greek word ano (up) The Greek word kata (down)

Electrode attracted to during electrolysis Anode Cathode

Type of element a nonmetal a metal