Question

an atom has 12 protons, 12 neutrons, and 10 electrons. is it neutral or an ion? explain how you know using the charges of subatomic particles.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall charges of subatomic particles

Protons have a charge of +1, neutrons have a charge of 0, and electrons have a charge of - 1.

Step2: Calculate the total charge

The total charge of protons is \(12\times(+ 1)=+12\). The total charge of neutrons is \(12\times0 = 0\). The total charge of electrons is \(10\times(-1)=-10\).

Step3: Find the net - charge

The net - charge of the atom is \(+12 + 0+( - 10)=+2\).

Answer:

It is an ion. Since the net charge of the atom is +2 (12 protons with a total charge of +12 and 10 electrons with a total charge of -10, giving a net charge of \(+12-10 = + 2\)), it is not neutral.