noun
- a positively charged ion that moves toward the cathode in electrolysis
Usage: chemistry term; contrasts with anion
Examples
- Sodium ions are cations that carry a positive charge.
- In an electric field, cations migrate toward the negative electrode.
- The salt dissolves into cations and anions in water.
- Hydrogen cations play an important role in acid-base chemistry.
- Calcium cations are essential for bone formation in living organisms.