Ontario Grade 9 Destreamed Science (SNC1W1) 2026 Practice Exam

In an atomic nucleus, protons are the particles that carry a positive charge. The positive charge of protons is a fundamental characteristic that is crucial for understanding atomic structure. Each proton carries a single unit of positive charge, which is essential for balancing the negative charge of electrons that orbit the nucleus. This balance of positive and negative charges helps maintain the stability of the atom.

Protons also play a significant role in determining the identity of an element, as the number of protons in the nucleus defines the element itself (for example, hydrogen has one proton, while carbon has six). The presence of protons is significant in discussions about atomic interactions, chemical bonding, and the behavior of atoms in various processes.

Neutrons, on the other hand, are neutrally charged and do not contribute to the charge of the nucleus. Electrons are negatively charged and exist outside the nucleus, while the term "nuclei" generally refers to the plural of nucleus and does not denote a specific particle type. Therefore, protons are the only particles in the atomic nucleus that bear a positive charge.