Making An Ion

The Making An Ion interactive allows students to explore the question of how atoms become ions. Visually observe the process and begin to build a model pertaining to ioins, charge, and electronic stability.  Start the simulation and pick an atom, and have phun Ionizing or Neutralizing it.

Launch Simulation


Users are encouraged to open the Interactive and explore. Or if desired, The Physics Classroom has prepared a student activity sheet for a more directed experience. The activity was designed with the intent of being used by classroom teachers with their classes. View Student Activity Sheet.

Our Making An Ion simulation is now available with a Concept Checker. Do the simulation. Then follow it up with the Concept Checker.

Learners and Instructors may also be interested in viewing the accompanying Notes page. Technical information, teaching suggestions, and related resources that complement this Interactive are provided on the Notes page. View Notes.

We owe a special thanks to Physics and Chemistry teacher Chris Bruce (Nerd Island Studios | SimBucket) for creating this simulation for us in order to add it to our Interactives collection.