# 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

## 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

- [atomic number](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/atomic-number)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Chemistry (4CH1)](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/neon-has-atomic-number-10-a-ccaab735) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.