Here's why:
* Atoms are neutral: Atoms have no overall charge.
* Protons have positive charge: The nucleus of an atom contains positively charged protons.
* Electrons have negative charge: Electrons orbit the nucleus and have a negative charge.
* Equal and opposite charges: The number of protons and electrons in a neutral atom is equal, resulting in a balanced charge.
To find the number of negative charges (electrons) in an atom, you need to know the element's atomic number. The atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus, which is also equal to the number of electrons in a neutral atom.
