Chapter 4, Problem 6STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for an atom to have no net electric charge is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Atom is the smallest unit of a matter. It is indestructible and cannot be created. It consists of protons, neutrons and electron as subatomic particles.

Answer to Problem 6STP

Correct answer: Option (d)

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct option:

Atom is electrically neutral because it contains an equal quantity of positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons. The magnitude of charge on electrons and protons is equal but sign is opposite as a result there is no net charge.

Conclusion

Reasons for incorrect options:

Option (a)

Atom consists of three subatomic particles, proton which is positively charged, electron is negatively charged and neutron has no charge.

Option (b)

The subatomic particle neutron has zero charge. Thus, it cannot cancel out any other subatomic particle.

Option (c)

Neutron is uncharged subatomic particle. Thus, it cannot cancel out any other subatomic particle. The negative charge subatomic particle is electron which cancels the positive charge of proton.