Use your knowledge of the charges of protons and electrons to explain why the carbon atom is now neutral.

Understanding Atomic Structure

1. Charge of Fundamental Particles: A carbon atom consists of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons carry a positive charge (+1), while electrons carry a negative charge (−1). Neutrons have no charge.

2. Composition of a Carbon Atom: A neutral carbon atom has 6 protons and 6 electrons. The number of protons defines the atomic number and, for carbon, it is 6. This means it is located in group 14 of the periodic table.

3. Balance of Charges: Since the charges of protons and electrons are equal in magnitude but opposite in sign, the total charge of the carbon atom can be calculated as follows: $\text{Total Charge} = (\text{Number of Protons} \times +1) + (\text{Number of Electrons} \times -1)$ Substituting the values: $\text{Total Charge} = (6 \times +1) + (6 \times -1) = 6 - 6 = 0$

Conclusion

Because the total positive charge from the protons exactly cancels out the total negative charge from the electrons, a carbon atom is electrically neutral. Thus, the balance of these charges ensures that the carbon atom maintains a neutral state, which is crucial for its stability and participation in chemical bonding. The neutrality of the atom allows it to form stable compounds, making carbon a fundamental element in chemistry and biology.