Here's why:

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

* Electrons: Negatively charged particles orbiting the nucleus.

Since opposite charges attract, a balance between the number of protons (positive charge) and electrons (negative charge) creates a neutral state.

Important note: While a neutral object has an equal number of protons and electrons *overall*, it's possible for individual atoms within the object to have a temporary imbalance. This happens due to electron movement, but the net charge of the entire object remains neutral.