How do electron configurations relate to ions?

Can you explain how electron configurations relate to ions?

Sure! Electron configurations describe the distribution of electrons in an atom. When atoms gain or lose electrons to form ions, their electron configurations change.

What happens to the electron configuration when an atom becomes a cation?

When an atom becomes a cation, it loses one or more electrons. This results in a positive charge and a new electron configuration that reflects the loss of those electrons.

And what about anions? How does that work?

Anions are formed when an atom gains electrons, resulting in a negative charge. The electron configuration will show additional electrons in the outer shell.

Can you give me an example with sodium and chloride?

Of course! Sodium (Na) loses one electron to become Na⁺, while chlorine (Cl) gains one electron to become Cl⁻. Their electron configurations change accordingly.