Atomic structure and charge neutrality: In a stable, electrically neutral atom, is the number of electrons equal to the number of protons present in the nucleus?

Introduction / Context:
Foundational electronics relies on atomic structure: charge carriers in solids originate from the balance (or imbalance) of subatomic particles. A clear grasp of how protons, electrons, and neutrons relate to net charge helps explain doping, junction formation, and current flow in devices such as diodes and transistors.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A “stable, electrically neutral atom” is considered (no net charge).
• Atomic constituents: protons (positive charge), electrons (negative charge), neutrons (neutral charge).
• No ionization or external charge transfer is occurring.

Concept / Approach:
Net electric charge of any object equals the algebraic sum of all individual charges. In atoms, each proton carries +e coulombs and each electron carries −e coulombs. For the net charge to be zero (neutral), the quantity of negative charge must equal the quantity of positive charge, which requires the number of electrons to equal the number of protons. Neutrons do not affect electrical charge; they contribute to mass and nuclear stability only.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider ions: Na⁺ has one fewer electron than protons; Cl⁻ has one extra electron. These are not neutral and illustrate that departing from equality produces charged species. Neutral, “stable” atoms inherently satisfy electrons = protons by definition of neutrality.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Incorrect” conflicts with the neutrality condition. Limiting it to hydrogen or 0 K is unnecessary; neutrality is temperature-independent. Neutron count does not determine electric charge, so the neutron-focused option is not relevant.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing chemical stability with electrical neutrality; an ion can be chemically stable yet carry net charge. Also, assuming neutrons influence charge balance is a common misconception.

Final Answer:
Correct