Solutions For 9780131905429 Chapter 2.1 Problem 1A

Atom is the basic unit of matter it is from a Greek word atom, which means unable to cut. Atoms are extremely small to place side by side. They contain sub atomic particles that are even smaller. The subatomic particles that make up atoms are protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Protons are positively charged particles and the neutrons carry no charge. Strong forces bind protons and neutrons together to form the nucleus, which is at the centre of the atom.

Electrons are negatively charged particle. They are in constant motion in the space surrounding the nucleus.

Since, atoms have equal number of electrons and protons. These subatomic particles have equal, but opposite charges. Hence, they are neutral.