When an atom loses or gains a charge, it becomes an ion. An ion is a type of atom that has an unequal number of protons and electrons, giving it a net electrical charge. If an atom loses one or more electrons, it becomes positively charged and is called a cation. On the other hand, if an atom gains one or more electrons, it becomes negatively charged and is called an anion.
So, in summary, an atom can lose or gain electrons to become an ion, which has a net electrical charge.