charged atom crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "charged atom crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ION: An atom that has gained or lost one or more electrons, resulting in a net electrical charge.
More About "charged atom crossword clue"
The term "charged atom" refers to an atom that has acquired an electrical charge by either gaining or losing electrons. Normally, an atom is electrically neutral, meaning it has an equal number of positively charged protons in its nucleus and negatively charged electrons orbiting the nucleus. When this balance is disrupted, the atom becomes an ion.
If an atom loses one or more electrons, it will have more protons than electrons, resulting in a net positive charge. This type of charged atom is called a cation. Conversely, if an atom gains one or more electrons, it will have more electrons than protons, resulting in a net negative charge. This is known as an anion.
Ions are crucial in many chemical and biological processes, from the conduction of electricity in solutions to the functioning of nerve cells in the human body. Their ability to attract or repel other charged particles makes them fundamental building blocks in various compounds and reactions, making "charged atom" a common and important concept found in general knowledge and, therefore, crossword puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Scientifically: For clues related to science, especially chemistry or physics, consider fundamental terms. "Charged atom" directly points to a core concept like 'ion'.
- Count Your Letters: The length of the answer is always a huge hint. For a short, precise definition like "charged atom," a short answer like 'ION' (3 letters) is very common.
- Look for Synonyms: Sometimes, clues use synonyms or descriptive phrases. For 'ion', phrases like 'electric particle', 'element with a charge', or 'traveling particle' could be hints in other puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common crossword answer for "charged atom"?
The most common and direct crossword answer for "charged atom" is ION.
Why is "ion" a frequent crossword answer?
"Ion" is a common crossword answer because it is a fundamental scientific term that concisely describes a charged atom. Its short length also makes it a convenient fit for many crossword grids, often appearing in daily puzzles.
Are there different types of charged atoms?
Yes, charged atoms are called ions, and they can be either positively charged (cations, formed by losing electrons) or negatively charged (anions, formed by gaining electrons).