negative charge crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "negative charge"? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find comprehensive answers for this popular crossword clue, complete with explanations and various letter counts to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "negative charge crossword clue" by Letter Count
8 Letters
ELECTRON: The fundamental subatomic particle carrying a negative elementary electric charge, found orbiting the nucleus of an atom.
5 Letters
ANION: An ion with a net negative charge, formed when an atom or molecule gains one or more electrons.
More About "negative charge crossword clue"
The concept of a "negative charge" is fundamental to physics and chemistry, often appearing in crosswords to test basic scientific literacy. The most common answer, ELECTRON, refers to the tiny, negatively charged particles that are essential components of atoms and are responsible for electrical currents. Understanding this basic building block of matter is key to many scientific clues.
Another frequent answer, ANION, expands on this concept by referring to a whole atom or molecule that has acquired a net negative charge. This occurs when a neutral atom gains extra electrons, creating an imbalance between its protons (positive charges) and electrons (negative charges). These terms are often used interchangeably in general contexts, but in crosswords, the specific letter count will guide you to the precise answer.
Crossword setters love clues that connect everyday words with scientific principles. Knowing these core definitions for "negative charge" will give you an edge in solving puzzles that delve into scientific topics.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Scientific Context: When you see scientific terms like "charge," think about fundamental particles, chemical elements, or basic physical laws.
- Check Letter Count First: Always prioritize the number of letters. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and narrows down your search significantly.
- Look for Plurals or Variations: Sometimes clues might hint at plurals (e.g., "negative charges" might point to ELECTRONS) or related concepts.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: Don't guess! Use the letters from solved intersecting words to confirm your answer for "negative charge."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between an electron and an anion?
An electron is a fundamental subatomic particle that carries a single, negative elementary electric charge. An anion, on the other hand, is an atom or molecule that has gained one or more electrons, resulting in an overall net negative charge.
How do scientific terms like 'negative charge' typically appear in crosswords?
Scientific terms in crosswords often test basic knowledge of physics, chemistry, or biology. Clues like 'negative charge' typically point to fundamental particles (e.g., ELECTRON) or types of ions (e.g., ANION). The letter count is crucial for narrowing down the possibilities.
Are there other meanings for 'charge' in crosswords?
Yes, 'charge' is a versatile word in crosswords and can have many meanings beyond electrical charge. It could refer to a task or responsibility (as in 'in charge'), a monetary cost, an accusation (as in 'bring a charge'), or even a powerful rush forward. Always consider the context of the entire clue and any intersecting letters.