When an ion is described as dissociated, what does it indicate?

When an ion is described as dissociated, it indicates that the ion has separated from its original molecule or compound and exists individually in a solution. This process typically occurs when a compound, like a salt, dissolves in water, breaking apart into its constituent ions. For example, when sodium chloride (NaCl) dissolves in water, it dissociates into sodium ions (Na⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻), thereby becoming part of the aqueous solution. This is a crucial concept in understanding how ionic compounds behave in different solvents, particularly in regard to their conductivity, reactivity, and solubility.

The other options do not accurately define the term "dissociated." An ion being concentrated refers to the amount of substance in a given volume, which does not directly relate to the process of dissociation. Neutrality pertains to the overall charge of a species, and dissociation typically involves charged particles. Lastly, the description of an ion as a gas is incorrect, as ions in solution are more commonly in an aqueous state rather than a gaseous form.