Why don't atoms have an overall charge?

Atoms are made up of three types of particles: protons, neutrons and electrons.

The relatives charge on each of these particles are as follows: protons = +1, neutrons = 0, electrons = -1

Because neutrons are not charged, they don't affect the overall charge of the atom.

The number of protons in an atom is equal to the number of electrons. Because protons and electrons have equal but opposite charges, they cancel each other out.

OA
Answered by Oreoluwapo A. Chemistry tutor

21443 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Can you describe ionic bonding and structure of ionic compounds to me?


What is a exothermic reaction?


Describe the structure and properties of graphite


Balance this equation: C6H12O6 + _O2 --> _CO2 + _H2O


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning