Which particle carries a positive charge in an atom?

Which particle carries a positive charge in an atom?

• A. Electrons
• B. Protons
• C. Neutrons
• D. Quarks

Answer: (B)

Positive charge in an atom is carried by the proton. Protons reside in the nucleus and have a +1 elementary charge, while electrons carry negative charge and orbit the nucleus, and neutrons are electrically neutral. The nucleus’ positive charge (from the protons) explains the attraction that holds electrons in orbit and defines the atomic number. Quarks are the smaller constituents inside protons and neutrons, but the particle that carries the overall positive charge in the atom is the proton.

Positive charge in an atom is carried by the proton. Protons reside in the nucleus and have a +1 elementary charge, while electrons carry negative charge and orbit the nucleus, and neutrons are electrically neutral. The nucleus’ positive charge (from the protons) explains the attraction that holds electrons in orbit and defines the atomic number. Quarks are the smaller constituents inside protons and neutrons, but the particle that carries the overall positive charge in the atom is the proton.