An electrically neutral atom has an equal number of protons and electrons. Here's why:

* Protons: Positively charged particles located in the nucleus of an atom.

* Electrons: Negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus.

Since opposite charges attract, the positive charges of the protons are balanced by the negative charges of the electrons in a neutral atom.

Key Point: The number of protons defines the element (e.g., an atom with 6 protons is always a carbon atom). The number of electrons can vary, leading to ions (atoms with a net positive or negative charge).