Why do atoms gain or lose electrons?

an electrically charged atom or group of atoms formed by the loss or gain of one or more electrons, as a cation (positive ion) which is created by electron loss and is attracted to the cathode in electrolysis, or as an anion (negative ion) which is created by an electron gain and is attracted to the anode. read more

Atoms gain or lose electrons based on their respective electron affinity. The greater the electron affinity of an atom, the more likely that atom is to accept an electron. Electron affinity changes based on the group of elements to which an atom belongs. read more

An atom's electrons tend to be stable so it will gain or lose electrons. To be stable, it will have to have exactly 8 or 18 electrons in its top energy levels. Energy levels increase as you go down row by row of the periodic table. read more

Atoms lose or gain electrons. They always want to be in lowest possible energy state. One way is to acquire a charge on them and make chemical bonds with other atoms or group of atoms. read more