Ionization occurs:
A)when an atom gains a neutron
B)when the atom has no charge
C)when an atom loses a proton
D)when an atom loses an electron

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ionization occurs when an atom loses an electron, which results in the formation of a positively charged ion. Therefore, option D is the correct choice. A is incorrect as gaining a neutron does not affect an atom's charge. B is incorrect as an atom can have a charge, either positive or negative. C is incorrect as losing a proton would result in the atom becoming a different element, rather than simply becoming ionized.

Ionization Occurs