The atom
Boron losing electrons

Boron has three electrons in the outer energy level. It will give three electrons away.

Notice how the boron atom gives three electrons away. The imbalance of protons and electrons now creates a charge of +3 on the atom.

Atoms with a charge are known as IONS. More precisely atoms with a positive charge are known as cations while atoms with a negative charge are known as anions. Boron, above, forms a cation.