Multiple Choice
How many electrons are present in a P^{2+} ion?
2. Atoms & Elements
Ions
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Is a charge indicated on neutral atoms? If yes, which of the following statements is correct?
A
Neutral atoms do not have a charge indicated because they have equal numbers of protons and electrons.
B
Neutral atoms have a positive charge indicated due to excess protons.
C
Neutral atoms have a negative charge indicated due to excess electrons.
D
Neutral atoms always have both positive and negative charges indicated.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of atomic charge: The charge of an atom is determined by the difference between the number of protons (positively charged) and electrons (negatively charged).
Recall that a neutral atom has an equal number of protons and electrons, which means the positive and negative charges balance each other out.
Since the charges balance, the overall charge of a neutral atom is zero, so no net charge is indicated on neutral atoms.
Review the given statements and identify that the correct one must reflect that neutral atoms have no net charge indicated because of equal protons and electrons.
Conclude that the correct statement is: 'Neutral atoms do not have a charge indicated because they have equal numbers of protons and electrons.'
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