That means an atom with a neutral charge is one where the number of electrons is equal to the atomic number. Ions are atoms with extra electrons or missing electrons. When you are missing an electron or two, you have a positive charge. When you have an extra electron or two, you have a negative charge
For example, sodium is an element with 11 protons within the nucleus and 11 electrons. Another example of an element is carbon, which has six protons within the nucleus and six electrons. In both cases, these elements have a neutral charge.
Explanation: That means an atom with a neutral charge is one where the number of electrons is equal to the atomic number. Ions are atoms with extra electrons or missing electrons. When you are missing an electron or two, you have a positive charge. When you have an extra electron or two, you have a negative charge.