➕Proton vs Neutron⚪
Protons and neutrons both live in the nucleus, but only one carries charge and determines an atom's identity.
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➕Proton
- ✓Carries a positive electric charge
- ✓Number defines the element (atomic number)
- ✓Mass about 1 atomic mass unit
- ✓Found in the nucleus
- ✓Determines chemical identity
⚪Neutron
- ✓Has no electric charge (neutral)
- ✓Number can vary, creating isotopes
- ✓Mass about 1 atomic mass unit
- ✓Found in the nucleus
- ✓Adds mass and nuclear stability
Verdict
Protons set an atom's identity and charge, while neutrons add mass and stabilize the nucleus. Changing protons changes the element; changing neutrons changes the isotope.
Frequently asked
Which particle defines the element?+
The proton, since the number of protons equals the atomic number.
What happens if neutron count changes?+
The atom becomes a different isotope of the same element.
Do both have a charge?+
No. Protons are positive, but neutrons carry no charge.
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