Does a proton signify lack of electrons?

In summary, electrons are transferred between objects by rubbing, resulting in one object becoming negatively charged and the other positively charged. Protons are particles with a positive charge and electrons are particles with a negative charge. Atoms are made of equal numbers of protons and electrons, with protons and neutrons residing in the nucleus and electrons forming a "cloud" outside. Electrons are more easily moved than protons, so they are the ones transferred when objects are rubbed together.
  • #1
Rejjy
1
0
I have learned that by rubbing, electrons are transferred from one object to another, making the gainer negatively charged and the loser positively charged.

I also know that a proton is positively charged.

Does it signify that a proton was once an entity that has lost its electrons?
 
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  • #2
Since atoms are made of equal numbers of protons and electrons (and neutrons, but they don't make charge), when the electrons are transferred it leaves an atom with more of one or the other. Protons themselves are particles that have a positive charge, while electrons are particles that have the same amount of charge, only negative.
 
  • #3
An atom consists of a tiny nucleus where the Protons and Neutrons reside, and a "cloud" of electrons. Electrons are far less massive than protons are and their position as the outside of the atom allows them to easily move around compared to protons. For a proton to move around the entire atom would have to move as well. Hence only electrons are transferred when you rub things together.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atom
 

Related to Does a proton signify lack of electrons?

1. What is a proton and how does it differ from an electron?

A proton is a subatomic particle that has a positive charge and is found in the nucleus of an atom. It differs from an electron, which has a negative charge and orbits the nucleus, in terms of size, mass, and location within an atom.

2. Can an atom still exist without protons?

No, an atom cannot exist without protons. The number of protons in an atom determines its atomic number and identifies what element it is. Without protons, the atom would have a net negative charge and would not be stable.

3. How does the number of protons affect the properties of an atom?

The number of protons in an atom determines its atomic number and therefore, its identity and chemical properties. It also affects the atom's size, stability, and interaction with other atoms.

4. Is there a relationship between protons and electrons?

Yes, there is a relationship between protons and electrons. In a neutral atom, the number of protons is equal to the number of electrons. This is known as the atomic number and determines the element's identity. Electrons also interact with protons through electromagnetic forces.

5. Can protons be removed from an atom?

Technically, yes, protons can be removed from an atom through nuclear reactions. However, this process requires a tremendous amount of energy and is not commonly observed in nature. In most cases, the number of protons in an atom remains constant.

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