When we say an atom has a charge of +1 or -2, what does that quantity refer to? Is it a measurable force? An energy quantity?

Question

I understand it means that it has more protons or electrons but what does ‘charge’ actually mean? I feel like I know it but I can’t explain it.

In: Chemistry

Answer 1

That is the charge in terms of elementary charge.

The elementary charge is 1.6×10^-19 C, C is the unit for Coulombs.

1 A = 1 C/s, you may be familiar with amps being the measure of electrical current.

The charge of an electron is -1.6×10^-19 C or -1 *e*

The charge of a proton is 1.6×10^-19 C or 1 *e*

When an atom is missing on electron, the atom has a net charge of +1 *e*

When the atom has 2 extra electrons, the atom has a net charge of -2 *e*