In a neutral atom, which statement describes the relationship between the numbers of protons and electrons?

• A. There are more protons than electrons, giving a positive charge.
• B. The numbers are equal, resulting in no net charge.
• C. Electrons outnumber protons, giving a negative charge.
• D. Electrons are in the nucleus.

Answer: (B)

The numbers of protons and electrons determine an atom’s overall charge. Protons have a positive charge and are in the nucleus, while electrons have a negative charge and orbit around the nucleus. In a neutral atom, the two are equal in number, so the positive charges balance the negative charges and the net charge is zero. If there are more protons than electrons, the atom would carry a positive charge; if electrons outnumber protons, it would carry a negative charge. (Electrons sit outside the nucleus, not in it.)