Cation definition

kătīən

Words form:

Frequency:

An ion with net positive charge, having more protons than electrons. In electrolysis, cations migrate to a negatively charged cathode.

An ion or group of ions having a positive charge and characteristically moving toward the negative electrode in electrolysis.

noun

A positively charged ion, esp. one that moves toward the cathode during electrolysis.

noun

(chemistry) The ion in an electrolyzed solution that migrates to the cathode.

noun

(chemistry) A positively charged ion—opposed to anion.

noun

Other Word Forms

Singular:

cation

Plural:

cations

Greek kation something going down from neuter present participle of katienai to go down kat-, kata- cata- ienai to go ei- in Indo-European roots

From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition