What is the charge of a proton?

• A. Neutral
• B. Positive
• C. Negative
• D. Variable

Answer: (B)

Protons have a positive electric charge. In atoms, the nucleus is made of protons and neutrons, and the positive charge of protons is what attracts negatively charged electrons and helps keep the atom's structure stable. The proton’s charge is +1 elementary charge, the same magnitude as the electron’s charge but with the opposite sign. Neutrons carry no net charge, and electrons carry a negative charge, so statements describing neutrality, negativity, or variable charge don’t fit. The proton’s charge is fixed and intrinsic.