How many electrons does a neutral carbon atom have?

• A. 4
• B. 6
• C. 8
• D. 12

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that a neutral atom has an equal number of protons and electrons.
2. Identify the atomic number of carbon, which represents the number of protons in the nucleus of a carbon atom.
3. The atomic number of carbon is 6, meaning it has 6 protons.
4. Since the atom is neutral, the number of electrons must also be 6 to balance the positive charge of the protons.
5. Therefore, a neutral carbon atom has 6 electrons.