Explain the electrical charge on an atom is zero or neutral.
2006-10-03 13:00:39 · 3 answers · asked by PATRICK M 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Homework Help
Okay. The electrical charge is neutral IF there is the same # of protons (positive) and electrons (negative). If an electron is lost, the charge is positive (more protons than electrons). And if an electron is gained the charge becomes negative (more electrons than protons). To have an isotope, neutrons must be added.
2006-10-03 13:04:03 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
ALL atoms start out in a perfect world. They have the same number of electrons as protons. Electrons have a negative charge (-) while the protons have a positive charge (+). Thus they cancel each other.
It is interesting that their masses are so out of proportion but means nothing concerning electrical charges.
Atoms also have neutrons but they carry no electrical charge.
In real life, however, all atoms (but the Noble Gases) gain or lose some outer shell electrons and thus will have a charge. You'll find this called, "valence", or "oxidation number".
Go get an "A"!!
2006-10-03 22:58:07 · answer #2 · answered by teachr 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Since a neural atom has eqal positive and negative charge.
2006-10-03 20:03:48 · answer #3 · answered by nnmaurya 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋