Directions: For the Assertion (A) and Reason (R) given below, choose the correct alternative. Assertion (A): An atom is overall electrically neutral despite containing charged particles. Reason (R): The neutrons present in an atom do not carry any electric charge.

Introduction / Context:

This Assertion–Reason question examines your understanding of basic atomic structure from physics and chemistry. It focuses on why an atom, which contains positively and negatively charged particles, is still electrically neutral and what role neutrons play in that neutrality. Correctly answering requires separating factual correctness from causal explanation.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Assertion (A): An atom is electrically neutral even though it contains charged particles.
• Reason (R): Neutrons in an atom do not have any electric charge.
• We must decide whether each statement is true and whether R is the correct explanatory reason for A.
• Standard atomic model: protons (positive), electrons (negative), neutrons (neutral).

Concept / Approach:

To solve, we recall that the total charge of an atom is the sum of the charges of its protons, electrons and neutrons. Neutrality of the atom arises from equal numbers of positive and negative charges, not simply from the existence of neutral particles. Therefore, we examine if R accurately describes the key cause of neutrality or merely states another true but unrelated fact.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Consider two isotopes of the same element. They have equal numbers of protons and electrons (so both are neutral) but different numbers of neutrons. If neutrons were the reason for neutrality, changing their number would affect the charge, which does not happen. This confirms that neutrality depends on protons and electrons, not on neutrons.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

The option stating that both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation is wrong because the actual explanation involves equal protons and electrons.

The option saying A is true but R is false is incorrect because neutrons really are uncharged.

The option that A is false but R is true is also incorrect, since atoms are indeed neutral in their ground state.

Common Pitfalls:

Students sometimes assume that any true scientific statement following the word “because” must be the correct explanation. Assertion–Reason questions are designed to break that habit. Always check whether the Reason directly addresses the mechanism behind the Assertion, not just some other fact from the same topic.

Final Answer:

The correct option is Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.