Why does proton have positive charge

Physica Scripta Volume T, 22, Editorial, e. Why an electron has a negative charge and that of a proton has positive? Saleh, Gh. Haken, H. Krumeich, F. Properties of electrons, their interactions with matter and applications in electron microscopy. Mohr, P. Journal of Physical and Chemical Reference Data, 45 4 , Reviews of Modern Physics, 80 2 , Orlov, S. Origin and Physical Properties of the Black Hole. International Journal of Astronautics and Aeronautical Engineering, 2 1. Pal Singh, G.

Atoms of hydrogen have a single proton in their center and a single electron in the lowest energy level. Helium atoms, on the other hand, have two protons and two electrons in the lowest energy level. The lowest energy level is filled with its maximum number of electrons.

This is a very stable arrangement, and helium in consequence is an inert gas with few chemical properties. Hydrogen only has one electron in its lowest energy level. This is a very unstable arrangement, and hydrogen gas undergoes a variety of reactions so as to reach a stable electron configuration where its energy level is either empty of electrons, or filled with electrons.

Atoms are at their most stable when their outermost energy level is either empty of electrons or filled with electrons. Sodium atoms have 11 electrons. Two of these are in the lowest energy level, eight are in the second energy level and then one electron is in the third energy level. This is a very unstable arrangement, and the element sodium is a highly reactive, deadly white semi-solid that will burst into flames on exposure to the air or will burn through human flesh on contact.

A reactive substance. Chlorine atoms have 17 electrons. Two in the lowest, eight in the second and 7 in the third energy level.

This too is a very unstable arrangement. This element is a gas at room temperature and was used in World War One as a poisonous attack weapon because of its high reactivity with human lungs. Related questions How big is an electron compared with a proton?

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