Cation

A cation is a positively charged atom or group of atoms. Since opposite charges attract, cations move towards the negative electrode during electrolysis. As compared to anions, non-metals which are negatively charged atoms, cations are alkali metals and alkaline earths which have more protons and electrons such as gold (Au+), silver (Ag+) and hydronium (H3O+ ). As opposites attract, cations are pulled by anions and are repelled by other cations. When paired with an anion in a compound, the cation is written first, for example, Calcium (Ca+) and Chlorine (Cl-1) will form Calcium Chloride (CaCl2).