Which subatomic particle contributes to the positive charge of an atom?
A.
Proton
B.
Neutron
C.
Electron
D.
Nucleon
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is A. Proton.
Explanation:
In an atom, the positive charge is primarily contributed by protons. To understand why, let’s break down the roles of the different subatomic particles:
- Protons: Protons are positively charged particles located in the nucleus of an atom. Each proton carries a positive charge of +1 elementary charge unit. The number of protons in the nucleus defines the atomic number of an element, which determines the element’s identity and its position in the periodic table. For instance, hydrogen has one proton, helium has two, and so on. The positive charge of the protons in the nucleus balances the negative charge of the electrons surrounding the nucleus, resulting in an overall electrically neutral atom.
- Neutrons: Neutrons are electrically neutral particles, meaning they carry no charge. They also reside in the nucleus alongside protons. Although neutrons contribute to the atomic mass and stability of the nucleus, they do not affect the atom’s overall charge.
- Electrons: Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus. Each electron carries a charge of -1 elementary charge unit. The number of electrons in a neutral atom equals the number of protons, which maintains the charge balance. However, electrons themselves do not contribute to the positive charge; rather, they contribute to the negative charge of the atom.
- Nucleons: Nucleons is a collective term that refers to both protons and neutrons in the nucleus. While nucleons are crucial for the atom’s mass and nuclear properties, they do not directly relate to the atom’s charge balance as a group.
In summary, it is the protons that are responsible for the positive charge in an atom. The number of protons dictates the element’s chemical properties and ensures that the atom remains electrically neutral by balancing the negative charge of electrons.