hydrogen ion

A hydrogen ion is simply a hydrogen atom that has lost its electrons, making it just a proton. In chemical reactions, especially in acids and bases, these ions play a key role in transferring positive charge. When acids dissolve in water, they release hydrogen ions (H⁺), which influence the solution’s acidity. Despite their small size, hydrogen ions are very reactive and essential for many biological and chemical processes, such as energy production in cells and maintaining pH balance in the body.