Cation (noun)

A positively charged ion in solution or in a compound.

Origin:

From new latin cation, from greek kation ("going down"), neuter of katios ("descending"), from kata ("down").

Examples:

1. The cation of a metal ion is important in determining its chemical properties.
2. The cation is attracted to the negative electrode in an electrolytic cell.
3. The cation exchange capacity of a soil is an important factor in plant nutrition.
4. The cation balance in the soil can affect the growth and yield of crops.
5. The cation concentration in a solution can be determined using spectrophotometry.