What describes the overall electrical charge of a neutral atom?

• A. Positive.
• B. Negative.
• C. Unknown.
• D. Neutral.

Answer: (D)

Neutral atoms have no overall electrical charge because the positive charges from the protons in the nucleus balance the negative charges from the electrons surrounding the nucleus. When there are equal numbers of protons and electrons, their charges cancel, giving a net charge of zero. Neutrons don’t affect the charge because they’re electrically neutral. If an atom gains or loses electrons, it becomes an ion with a net positive or negative charge, not neutral. So describing a neutral atom as neutral best fits its balanced, zero net charge.