Question

a neutral atom always contains an equal number of
a. protons and neutrons.
b. protons and electrons.
c. electrons and neutrons.
d. protons, electrons, and neutrons.

Explanation:

A neutral atom has no net electric charge. Protons carry positive charge, electrons carry negative charge, and neutrons are neutral. For the net charge to be zero, the number of positive protons must equal the number of negative electrons. The number of neutrons can vary (isotopes) without affecting neutrality. Thus, a neutral atom always has equal protons and electrons.

Answer:

B. protons and electrons.