Question

which statement best explains why the overall charge on an atom is zero?
the positive charge of the neutrons in the nucleus equals the negative charge in the electron cloud.
the positive charge of the protons in the nucleus equals the negative charge in the electron cloud.
the negative charge of the neutrons in the nucleus equals the positive charge in the electron cloud.
the negative charge of the protons in the nucleus equals the positive charge in the electron cloud.

Explanation:

Protons in the nucleus have a positive charge, and electrons in the electron - cloud have a negative charge. In a neutral atom, the number of protons equals the number of electrons, so their charges cancel out, resulting in an overall charge of zero.

Answer:

The positive charge of the protons in the nucleus equals the negative charge in the electron cloud.