Neon has atomic number 10. A neon atom contains only one type of subatomic particle that carries no charge. State the name of this particle and where it is found in the atom. Then explain why a neon atom overall has no electric charge.

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Chemistry (4CH1) — 1.2 Atoms · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

The uncharged sub‑atomic particle is the neutron, which is found in the nucleus.

Neon has 10 protons and 10 electrons. The 10 positively charged protons are exactly balanced by the 10 negatively charged electrons, so the overall charge is zero.

Examiner tips

  • State the particle and its location first; then give the charge balance explanation.
  • Use the terms ‘neutron’, ‘nucleus’, ‘protons’, ‘electrons’, ‘positive’, ‘negative’, ‘overall charge zero’.
  • Show the equality of numbers of protons and electrons to justify neutrality.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing the neutron with the electron or proton.
  • Failing to mention that the proton and electron numbers are equal.
  • Using vague terms like ‘neutral’ without explaining the charge balance.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. The uncharged (neutral) subatomic particle is the neutron
  2. The neutron is found in the nucleus
  3. The number of protons (positively charged) equals the number of electrons (negatively charged)
  4. The positive charges of the protons are exactly cancelled by the negative charges of the electrons, giving an overall charge of zero

Key terms in this question

atomic number

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