Question

An atom is electrically neutral. But the electrons present in it are negatively charged particles. If only negative charges were present, the atom would not be neutral. Then, why are atoms considered to be neutral?

Answer 1

• This is the idea before Rutherford’s model. 
• According to Rutherford’s model, number of protons inside the nucleus and number of electrons outside the nucleus are equal. 
• Hence the net negative charge is equal to net positive charge. So, the atom is electrically neutral.