What is the difference between cations and anions?

Cations and anions are both types of ions, which are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost electrons. The correct choice highlights that cations are positively charged ions, which means they have fewer electrons than protons due to the loss of one or more electrons. This loss gives them a net positive charge. In contrast, anions are negatively charged ions, formed when an atom or molecule gains electrons, resulting in more electrons than protons and thus a net negative charge.

This distinction is fundamental in chemistry, as the behavior of these ions in chemical reactions is largely dictated by their charges. Cations typically attract negatively charged particles or ions, while anions might attract positively charged particles, which is critical in the formation of ionic compounds and in various chemical reactions.

The other provided choices contain inaccuracies regarding the nature of charges associated with cations and anions or misrepresent their properties. Hence, understanding that cations are positively charged and anions are negatively charged is key to grasping their roles in chemistry.