A molecular ion is a charged molecule that has lost or gained one or more electrons, resulting in a net electrical charge. Some synonyms for molecular ion include charged molecule, ionized molecule, radical ion, and electrolyte. The term ion also encompasses other types of charged species, such as atomic ions and polyatomic ions. Molecular ions play a crucial role in many chemical processes, including ionization mass spectrometry, electrochemistry, and atmospheric chemistry. Understanding the properties and behavior of molecular ions is essential for both fundamental research and practical applications in fields such as medicine, materials science, and environmental chemistry.