Which subatomic particle carries a negative electric charge?

• A. Proton
• B. Alpha particle
• C. Electron
• D. Neutron

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the three main subatomic particles found in an atom: protons, neutrons, and electrons.
2. Understand the electric charge associated with each particle: protons carry a positive charge, neutrons have no charge (neutral), and electrons carry a negative charge.
3. Identify that an alpha particle is composed of two protons and two neutrons, so it carries a positive charge overall.
4. Since the question asks for the particle with a negative electric charge, focus on the electron, which is the only subatomic particle with a negative charge.
5. Conclude that the electron is the subatomic particle that carries a negative electric charge.