What is the overall charge of an atom that contains 15 protons, 16 neutrons, and 17 electrons?

• A. 2-
• B. 1-
• C. 1+
• D. Neutral

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the charges of the subatomic particles: protons have a charge of +1, electrons have a charge of -1, and neutrons have no charge (0).
2. Calculate the total positive charge by multiplying the number of protons by +1: \$15 \times (+1) = +15$.
3. Calculate the total negative charge by multiplying the number of electrons by -1: \$17 \times (-1) = -17$.
4. Add the total positive and negative charges to find the overall charge: \(+15 + (-17) = -2\).
5. Since the overall charge is -2, the atom has a charge of 2-.