A lithium ion has 3 protons and 2 electrons. It forms when a neutral lithium atom loses one electron.Classify what type of ion this is.

Type of Ion Classification

1. Understanding Ions:

   • Ions are charged particles formed when atoms lose or gain electrons.
   • The charge of the ion is determined by the difference between the number of protons (positively charged) and electrons (negatively charged).

2. Configuration of Lithium Ion:

   • A neutral lithium atom has 3 protons and 3 electrons.
   • When a neutral lithium atom loses one electron, it now has 3 protons and 2 electrons.

3. Calculation of Charge:

   • Charge of the ion = Number of protons - Number of electrons
   • Charge = 3 protons - 2 electrons = +1

4. Classification:

   • Because this lithium atom has more protons than electrons, it is positively charged.
   • A positively charged ion is known as a cation.

Final Answer

The lithium ion is a cation, specifically a lithium ion ($\text{Li}^+$).