Which statement correctly describes the difference in electric charge between protons and electrons in an atom?

• A. Protons have a negative charge, while electrons have a positive charge.
• B. Protons and electrons both have a positive charge.
• C. Protons have no charge, while electrons have a positive charge.
• D. Protons have a positive charge, while electrons have a negative charge.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that protons and electrons are subatomic particles found in atoms, each with a specific electric charge.
2. Understand that the electric charge of a proton is positive, which means it carries a charge of +1 elementary charge.
3. Recognize that the electric charge of an electron is negative, carrying a charge of -1 elementary charge, equal in magnitude but opposite in sign to that of a proton.
4. Note that neutrons, another subatomic particle, have no electric charge and are neutral, but they are not part of this question.
5. Therefore, the correct description is that protons have a positive charge, while electrons have a negative charge.