Which particle is considered to be neutral?

Which particle is considered to be neutral?

• A. Electron
• B. Neutron
• C. Proton
• D. Ion

Answer: (B)

The neutron is considered a neutral particle because it has no electric charge. In the context of an atom, neutrons reside in the nucleus alongside positively charged protons. The lack of charge in neutrons plays a crucial role in providing stability to the nucleus, as they help to balance the repulsive force between the positively charged protons. In contrast, electrons carry a negative charge, while protons carry a positive charge. Ions, defined as atoms or molecules that have lost or gained one or more electrons, can be positively charged (cations) or negatively charged (anions), depending on whether they have lost or gained electrons. Thus, the unique characteristic of the neutron being neutral is what sets it apart from these other particles.

The neutron is considered a neutral particle because it has no electric charge. In the context of an atom, neutrons reside in the nucleus alongside positively charged protons. The lack of charge in neutrons plays a crucial role in providing stability to the nucleus, as they help to balance the repulsive force between the positively charged protons.

In contrast, electrons carry a negative charge, while protons carry a positive charge. Ions, defined as atoms or molecules that have lost or gained one or more electrons, can be positively charged (cations) or negatively charged (anions), depending on whether they have lost or gained electrons. Thus, the unique characteristic of the neutron being neutral is what sets it apart from these other particles.