Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What is the charge of an electron?

1. Neutral

2. Positively charged

3. Negatively charged

4. Varies with its state

The correct answer is: Negatively charged

Electrons are fundamental particles that carry a specific electric charge, which is known to be negative. This negative charge is essential in understanding various physical and chemical interactions. In the context of atomic structure, electrons orbit the nucleus of an atom, which contains positively charged protons and neutral neutrons. The negative charge of electrons balances the positive charge of protons, resulting in a neutral atom overall when the number of electrons equals the number of protons. The concept of varying charge depending on the state does not apply to electrons, as their charge remains constant regardless of the conditions. Similarly, stating that electrons are neutral or positively charged contradicts established scientific knowledge about their fundamental properties. Thus, the correct and well-established understanding is that an electron is negatively charged.