How do atoms become cations and anions? Please use specific examples in your explanation.

Cations are ions with a net positive charge.

Cation Examples:

Silver: Ag+

Hydronium: H3O+

Ammonium: NH4+

Anions are ions with a net negative charge.

Anion Examples:

Hydroxide anion: OH-

Oxide anion: O2-

Sulfate anion: SO42-

Explanation:

Cations and anions are both ions. The difference between a cation and an anion is the net electrical charge of the ion.  Ions are atoms or molecules which have gained or lost one or more valence electrons, giving the ion a net positive or negative charge. If the chemical species has more protons than electrons, it carries a net positive charge. If there are more electrons than protons, the species has a negative charge. The number of neutrons determines the isotope of an element but does not affect the electrical charge.