When an atom is neutral the...? A. the number of neutrons and protons are the same
B. the number of neutrons and electrons are the same
C. the number of protons and electrons are the same
D. all atoms are neutral regardless of the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons

c

Explanation:

if numbers of protons and electrons are equal, the atom is neutral

C.the number of protons and electrons are the same.

Explanation:

Protons have a positive charge, while electrons have a negative charge.

So, if there are more electrons (-) than protons (+), the atom will have a negative charge.

If the atom has more protons (+) than electrons (-), it will have a positive charge.

If they have the same number of negative and positive, they "cancel" out, making it neutral.

when it gains or loses electrons

d is the correct answer