# Explain why atoms have no overall electrical charge, despite containing charged particles.

> Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) — 1.3 Atomic structure · Explain · 4 marks

> Atoms are made up of three types of subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Protons have a positive charge (and electrons have a negative charge)
2. Neutrons have no charge / are neutral
3. The number of protons equals the number of electrons
4. The positive and negative charges cancel out / balance, giving no overall charge

## Key terms

- [electrical charge](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/electrical-charge)
- [atom](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/atom)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-atoms-have-no-overall-d43a1f6a) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.