Question Detail

PHY 104 PHY 104 Past Questions Objective Question

Question

An atom consists of electrons orbiting a nucleus. The nucleus contains protons and neutrons. For an atom to be neutral, which statement about the atom must be correct?
Options
A The number of electrons is equal to the number of protons.
Correct Answer
B the number of protons is equal to the number of neutrons.
C The number of electrons, protons and neutrons are all different.
D The number of electrons is equal to the number of neutrons.
Correct Answer

Option A is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

An atom is neutral when the total positive charge (from protons) equals the total negative charge (from electrons). Therefore, the number of protons must equal the number of electrons.

Hint

For a neutral atom, the positive charge must balance the negative charge.

Question Info