Which of the following best describes the overall charge of the nucleus of an atom?

• A. It depends on the number of neutrons
• B. Negative
• C. Positive
• D. Neutral

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the nucleus of an atom contains protons and neutrons. Protons carry a positive charge, while neutrons are electrically neutral.
2. Understand that the overall charge of the nucleus is determined by the sum of the charges of its constituent particles.
3. Since neutrons have no charge, they do not affect the overall charge of the nucleus.
4. Protons each have a positive charge, so the total positive charge of the nucleus equals the number of protons it contains.
5. Therefore, the overall charge of the nucleus is positive, regardless of the number of neutrons.