Question

Explain why the number of protons in an atom must always equal the number of electrons.

Answer 1

For every negative theres a positive and for every positive there is a negative

Answer 2

Usually within an atom, the protons and electrons are equal to make the atom have a neutral charge.

However, there are cases in which the protons and electrons are different, such as Cations and Anions. Cations end up having a positive charge (less electrons than protons), and Anions end up having a negative charge (more electrons than protons).

I hope this helps!