Question

What gives an atom its charge?

Answer 1

An atom with a neutral charge is one where the number of electrons is equal to the atomic number

hope i helped

Answer 2

A Neutral, stable atom has no charge as it has an equal number of Protons and Electrons. An Atom gains a charge by the loss or gain of electrons thus becoming an Ion. The loss of 1 or more electrons will give the atom a Positive charge (now having more Protons then Neutrons) and becomes a Positive Ion (or Cation).  hope that helped