Question

An atom that has gained one electron has a charge of _______.

Short answer

\(-1\)

Step-by-step solution

Understanding an electron and its charge

An electron is a subatomic particle with a negative charge. The charge of an electron is approximately -1.6 × 10^{-19} coulombs. When an atom gains an electron, it acquires a negative charge equal to one electron's charge.

Expressing the charge of an atom with one extra electron

Since the atom has gained one electron, its charge will be the same as the charge of one electron. Therefore, the atom's charge will be -1.6 × 10^{-19} coulombs.

Simplifying the charge

In regular daily usage, it is common to simplify the atom's charge to a single unit reflecting the gained electron. In this case, an atom that has gained one electron has a charge of -1. So, an atom that has gained one electron has a charge of \(-1\).

Key concepts

Electron

Electrons are essential components of atoms, acting as negatively charged carriers. They revolve around the nucleus of an atom in various energy levels or orbitals. This negative charge that electrons possess is fundamental to the electromagnetic force, which governs many interactions in the universe.

• An electron has a charge of approximately \(-1.6 \times 10^{-19}\) coulombs.
• The negative sign indicates its negative charge, opposite to that of protons, which are positively charged.

Electrons are responsible for forming chemical bonds and play a crucial role in the composition of molecules. Understanding their charge and behavior helps us comprehend various chemical reactions and electrical phenomena.

Subatomic Particles

Atoms are composed of even smaller units called subatomic particles, which include protons, neutrons, and electrons. These particles are the building blocks of atoms, each with its unique properties.

• Protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom.
• Neutrons are neutral particles, also residing in the nucleus, and they have no charge.
• Electrons are negatively charged and orbit around the nucleus.

The balance between these subatomic particles determines the charge and overall stability of an atom. For example, when an atom gains an additional electron, it becomes negatively charged, as the extra electron increases its negative charge relative to protons.

Coulombs

Coulombs are the SI unit for measuring electric charge. This unit quantifies the amount of electric charge carried by particles such as electrons.

• One coulomb is equivalent to the charge of approximately \(6.24 \times 10^{18}\) electrons.
• The charge of a single electron is about \(-1.6 \times 10^{-19}\) coulombs.
• Coulombs enable us to measure and calculate the electric charge in various systems and materials.

The concept of coulombs is essential in physics and engineering, as it helps us understand and predict the behavior of charged particles. When dealing with electric circuits, fields, and forces, using coulombs facilitates precise and accurate calculations.