# cation

/ˈkæˌtaɪən/ (US) · /kˈætaɪən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cation
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a positively charged particle in a chemical solution. It moves toward the negative side of an electrical current.

For teachers: a positively charged ion that is attracted to the cathode during electrolysis. In chemical notation, it is typically represented by a superscript plus sign following the element symbol.

## Examples

- Sodium ions are common cations in salt water.
- During the electrolysis of water, the cation moves toward the cathode while the anion moves toward the anode.
- The movement of cations through the cell membrane is essential for generating the electrical impulses that allow neurons to communicate with one another.

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