What are particles called that carry a charge?

Particles that carry a charge are known as ions. An ion is defined as an atom or molecule that has gained or lost one or more electrons, leading to a net electrical charge. If an atom loses electrons, it becomes a positively charged cation, while if it gains electrons, it becomes a negatively charged anion. This fundamental concept is crucial in understanding various chemical reactions, electrical conductivity, and the role of ions in biological systems.

While atoms are the basic units of matter and can exist in neutral forms (with no overall charge), and molecules are composed of two or more atoms bonded together (which can also be neutral), neither of these terms specifically refers to charged particles. Electrons, on the other hand, are subatomic particles that carry a negative charge; however, they are not complete entities like ions since they are part of atoms. In this context, ions are the most appropriate term to describe charged particles.