An atom of any element must contain

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Multiple Choice

An atom of any element must contain

In a neutral atom, the positive charge from the protons in the nucleus is exactly balanced by the negative charge of the electrons surrounding the nucleus. This balance gives the atom no net charge. Therefore, for any element in its neutral form, the numbers of protons and electrons must be the same. If there are more protons than electrons, the atom carries a positive charge (an ion). If there are more electrons than protons, it carries a negative charge (an ion). An atom with no electrons would not be neutral, and the idea of electrons and protons alternating isn’t a physical requirement. Neutrons affect mass but not charge, so they don’t change this balance.

In a neutral atom, the positive charge from the protons in the nucleus is exactly balanced by the negative charge of the electrons surrounding the nucleus. This balance gives the atom no net charge. Therefore, for any element in its neutral form, the numbers of protons and electrons must be the same.

If there are more protons than electrons, the atom carries a positive charge (an ion). If there are more electrons than protons, it carries a negative charge (an ion). An atom with no electrons would not be neutral, and the idea of electrons and protons alternating isn’t a physical requirement. Neutrons affect mass but not charge, so they don’t change this balance.

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