Yes, a particle can be ionized by removing either an electron or a proton.
Ionization refers to the process of converting a neutral atom or molecule into an ion by adding or removing one or more electrons. When an electron is removed from an atom or molecule, it results in a positively charged ion, known as a cation. Conversely, when an electron is added to an atom or molecule, it creates a negatively charged ion, called an anion.
For example, if a hydrogen atom loses its electron, it becomes a hydrogen cation (H+). The removal of the electron leaves behind a single proton, giving the atom a net positive charge.
On the other hand, if an atom or molecule gains an extra electron, it becomes a negatively charged ion. For instance, if an oxygen atom (O) gains two electrons, it forms an oxide ion (O2-), with a net negative charge.
It's worth noting that ionization can occur not only with individual atoms but also with molecules, where multiple electrons can be added or removed, resulting in complex ions.
In summary, ionization can happen by removing either an electron or a proton, leading to the formation of charged particles or ions.