Explain why atoms are generally electrically neutral. What happens if an atom gains or loses electrons?
ChemistryClass 9CBSEAnswered 12 May 2026
Answer
Atoms are generally electrically neutral because they contain an equal number of positively charged protons in the nucleus and negatively charged electrons orbiting the nucleus, balancing out the overall charge. If an atom gains electrons, it becomes a negatively charged ion (anion). If an atom loses electrons, it becomes a positively charged ion (cation).
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