What defines a positive ion?

A positive ion is characterized by having a lack of electrons compared to protons. In an atom, protons carry a positive charge, while electrons carry a negative charge. When an atom loses one or more electrons, it has more protons than electrons, resulting in a net positive charge. This state is what defines it as a positive ion, or cation.

Understanding this concept is fundamental in chemistry and physics, as the behavior of ions plays a crucial role in electrical conductivity, chemical reactions, and many other processes.