How do you know if a element is neutral?
Chemistry · High School · Thu Jan 21 2021
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Here are a few key points to consider:
- Protons and Electrons: The number of protons in an atom is also known as the atomic number. In a neutral atom, the number of protons is equal to the number of electrons.
- Overall Charge: The overall charge of a neutral atom is zero. This is because the positive charge of protons cancels out the negative charge of electrons.
- Atomic Symbol: The atomic symbol of an element typically includes its atomic number, which represents the number of protons. For example, the atomic number of carbon is 6, so a neutral carbon atom has six protons and six electrons.
- Ionization State: If an atom gains or loses electrons, it becomes an ion and is no longer neutral. If it gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged (anion), and if it loses electrons, it becomes positively charged (cation).