To determine which substance represents an ion with a +1 charge, we need to consider the relationship between the number of protons and electrons.
An ion is formed when there is a difference between the number of protons (positively charged) and electrons (negatively charged):
- A neutral atom has the same number of protons and electrons.
- A cation (positively charged ion) has more protons than electrons.
- An anion (negatively charged ion) has more electrons than protons.
Now, let's examine the substances in the data table:
- Lithium: 3 protons, 2 electrons → 3 - 2 = +1 (this is a cation)
- Fluorine: 9 protons, 10 electrons → 9 - 10 = -1 (this is an anion)
- Potassium: 19 protons, 19 electrons → 19 - 19 = 0 (this is neutral)
- Sulfur: 16 protons, 18 electrons → 16 - 18 = -2 (this is an anion)
From this analysis, the substance that represents an ion with a +1 charge is:
A. Lithium