Final answer:
The claim that some atoms have no protons is false. An atom is defined by its nucleus containing protons, which determine the chemical element, and in a neutral state, it has an equal number of electrons to balance the charge.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that some atoms do not have any protons is false. By definition, an atom consists of a central nucleus that contains protons and usually neutrons. The number of protons in the nucleus defines the chemical element to which the atom belongs. In the neutral state, the number of electrons outside the nucleus is equal to the number of protons, resulting in no net charge. For example, a hydrogen atom, which is the lightest element, has one proton and one electron in its neutral state.
All the atoms of a particular element have the exact same number of protons, which is known as the atomic number of the element. Atoms can gain or lose electrons to form ions, which are charged atoms. However, even when an atom gains or loses electrons, the number of protons remains unchanged; this is the reason atoms of a given element are always associated with a specific number of protons.
It is important to note that in normal chemical reactions, the protons in the nucleus do not change. Only the outer electrons involved can move, leading to the formation of ions (charged particles). Metals typically form cations (positive charge) by losing electrons, whereas nonmetals form anions (negative charge) by gaining electrons.