The part of an atom that has no charge is the neutron.
Understanding Atomic Structure
Atoms are composed of three subatomic particles:
- Protons: Positively charged particles located in the atom's nucleus.
- Neutrons: Neutral particles (no charge) also residing in the atom's nucleus. As stated in chem.libretexts.org, "Neutrons are a type of subatomic particle with no charge (they are neutral)."
- Electrons: Negatively charged particles orbiting the nucleus.
The neutrons, along with protons, are bound together within the atom's nucleus by the strong nuclear force. Their lack of charge is a key characteristic distinguishing them from protons and electrons. Sources like chem.libretexts.org and uen.pressbooks.pub confirm this neutrality.
In a neutral atom, the number of protons (positive charges) equals the number of electrons (negative charges), resulting in an overall neutral charge for the atom itself. However, the neutrons within the nucleus contribute no charge to this balance.
