helium ions

Helium ions are positively charged particles formed when a helium atom loses one or more electrons. Helium itself is the second lightest and second most abundant element in the universe, consisting of two protons and two neutrons in its nucleus, surrounded by electrons. When an atom loses electrons, it becomes an ion; for helium, this typically results in a helium ion with a charge of +1 (He+) or +2 (He²+). Helium ions are used in various scientific applications, including nuclear fusion research and medical imaging, due to their unique properties.