What term describes ions that carry a positive charge?

The term that describes ions carrying a positive charge is cations. Cations are formed when an atom loses one or more electrons, resulting in a net positive charge because the number of protons exceeds the number of electrons. This process typically occurs in chemical reactions and is essential in many biological and physiological processes, including cellular function and nerve impulse transmission.

Ions that carry a negative charge are called anions, which are formed when an atom gains electrons. Electrons themselves are subatomic particles with a negative charge and are not ions. Neutrons are another type of subatomic particle, but they carry no charge. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping concepts related to chemistry and physiology in medical practice.