Question

an example of an atom that has no charge is one that has
a) 2 protons, 2 electrons, and 1 neutron.
b) 1 proton, 2 electrons, and 3 neutrons.
c) 3 protons, 1

Explanation:

To determine a neutral atom (no charge), the number of protons (positive charge) must equal the number of electrons (negative charge). Neutrons have no charge and do not affect the overall charge of the atom.

• For option A: Number of protons = 2, Number of electrons = 2. Since 2 (protons) = 2 (electrons), the positive and negative charges cancel out, resulting in a neutral atom.
• For option B: Number of protons = 1, Number of electrons = 2. Here, 1 ≠ 2, so there is a net negative charge (since electrons are more than protons).

So, option A represents a neutral atom.

Answer:

A) 2 protons, 2 electrons, and 1 neutron.