Radiation Safety Practice Exam

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Study for the Radiation Safety Exam. Test your knowledge with multiple choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively and confidently!

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What does an ion always carry?

  1. An unstable energy configuration

  2. A positive charge or a negative charge

  3. No charge

  4. A neutral charge

The correct answer is: A positive charge or a negative charge

An ion always carries a positive charge or a negative charge because it is defined as an atom or molecule that has lost or gained one or more electrons. When an atom loses electrons, it becomes positively charged, known as a cation. Conversely, when it gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged, referred to as an anion. This ability to lose or gain electrons is what distinguishes ions from neutral atoms, which have an equal number of protons and electrons, resulting in no net charge. Understanding this fundamental concept of ionization is crucial in various fields, including chemistry and radiation safety, as ions play significant roles in chemical reactions and radiation interactions.

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