Neutral atoms have an equal number of protons and electrons, which means their overall electric charge is zero. On the other hand, atoms that are positively charged, also known as cations, have lost one or more electrons and thus have a net positive charge. The loss of electrons changes the number of positive charges (protons) and negative charges (electrons) within the atom, altering its chemical and physical properties. The difference in charge also affects how these atoms interact with other atoms and molecules, leading to differences in reactivity and behavior.