What Are Ions Made of?

The known universe is made up of very tiny pieces. Electromagnetism is a term in physics used to describe why some of these parts hold together. Ions are among those parts.

Background

• All matter has atoms that are comprised of electrons, protons and neutrons. Different combinations of these particles make up different substances or elements. For example, oxygen has eight protons and electrons, and hydrogen has only one of each.

Formation

• An ion is formed when the balance between electrons or protons is lost; a change in physical or chemical composition is one reason this might happen. A negative ion, or anion, forms when there are more electrons than protons. A positive ion is formed when a molecule, for example, has more protons than electrons. Ionic bonds are the result of these processes as well.

Applications

• Scientists can use ion technology to power space vehicles more efficiently. An ion engine is the newest form of rocket propulsion. It lasts much longer than a traditional engine (power generated by chemical reactions from rocket fuel), but is less powerful.