The Number of Protons in a Neutral Atom Equals the Number

Question

The number of protons in a neutral atom equals the number of
A) isotopes.
B) neutrons.
C) electrons plus neutrons.
D) neutrons minus electrons.
E) electrons.

Accepted Answer

The number of protons in a neutral atom is called its atomic number, and this number determines the element to which the atom belongs. Electrons surround the nucleus and have a negative charge, but in a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons to balance the charge. Therefore, the number of protons in a neutral atom is equal to the number of electrons.