A nitrogen atom that has gained or lost one or more electrons to form a charged particle called an ion. The charge on the nitrogen ion depends on whether it gained or lost electrons.
Related terms
Cation: A positively charged ion formed when an atom loses one or more electrons.
Anion: A negatively charged ion formed when an atom gains one or more electrons.
Valence Electrons: Outermost shell electrons involved in chemical bonding. These are the first ones to be gained or lost during ion formation.