What is the difference between a neutral element and an ion?

Question

An ion is an element that has gained or lost electrons, so it is no longer neutral.

An ion is an element that has a different number of neutrons than protons.

There is no difference between a neutral element and an ion.

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

A neutral element has an equal number of protons and electrons, resulting in a net charge of zero. It is electrically balanced.

An ion, on the other hand, is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost electrons, resulting in a positive or negative net charge. An ion is electrically charged.