Which of the Following is True of an Anion

Question

Which of the following is true of an anion?
A) An anion always ionizes to form electrolytes.
B) An anion always has an atomic mass of 15.
C) An anion carries a negative charge.
D) A hydrogen ion is an anion.

Accepted Answer

An anion is a negatively charged ion that forms when an atom gains one or more electrons. This means that it always carries a negative charge, making choice C correct. Choice A is incorrect because not all anions will necessarily ionize to form electrolytes. Choice B is incorrect because the atomic mass of an anion will depend on the specific element or compound it is formed from. Choice D is incorrect because a hydrogen ion is actually a cation (not an anion) since it has lost its only electron and carries a positive charge.