How to Ionize an Atom?

Ionization is the process by which ions are formed by gain or loss of an electron from an atom or molecule. If an atom or molecule gains an electron, it becomes negatively charged (an anion), and if it loses an electron, it becomes positively charged (a cation). Energy may be lost or gained in the formation of an ion.

What does it mean for an atom to become ionized?

Ionization, in chemistry and physics, any process by which electrically neutral atoms or molecules are converted to electrically charged atoms or molecules (ions). Ionization is one of the principal ways that radiation, such as charged particles and X rays, transfers its energy to matter.

What are the two ways to cause ionization?

Ionization can be induced by high energy radiation such as x rays and ultraviolet light (photoionization), bombardment by high energy electrons (electron impact ionization) or small molecular ions (chemical ionization) and by exposure to high electric fields (field ionization).