HESI A2 Physics Practice Test Related

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In an electrically neutral atom, the number of:

  • A. Electrons is equal to protons
  • B. Protons is equal to neutrons
  • C. Neutrons are always greater than protons
  • D. Electrons are always less than protons
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In an electrically neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons. Electrons carry a negative charge, protons carry a positive charge, and neutrons are neutral. Since the atom is electrically neutral, the positive charge of the protons must balance the negative charge of the electrons, making the numbers of electrons and protons equal. Choice B is incorrect because protons are not equal to neutrons in an atom. Choice C is incorrect because neutrons are not always greater than protons, and choice D is incorrect because electrons are not always less than protons in an atom.