Question

A neutral atom of Sodium (Na) has 11 positive protons and 11 negative electrons. When sodium LOSES its outer electron, it becomes a Sodium Ion with a charge of +1. Why is its overall charge now +1?

Answer 1

In many cases, elements that belong to the same group (vertical column) on the periodic table form ions with the same charge because they have the same number of valence electrons. Thus, the periodic table becomes a tool for remembering the charges on many ions. For example, all ions made from alkali metals, the first column on the periodic table, have a 1+ charge