Final answer:
To create a neutral atom, there must be an equal number of protons and electrons. Among the given options, the only combination that meets this condition for neutrality is (C) 7 electrons, 6 neutrons, and 7 protons.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine which of the given options will make a neutral atom, we must know the fundamental property that a neutral atom must have an equal number of protons and electrons. The number of neutrons is not directly related to the charge of the atom. From the choices provided, the correct answer that describes a neutral atom is:
- (C) 7 electrons, 6 neutrons, 7 protons
This combination specifies that there are 7 protons and an equal number of 7 electrons. According to the atomic structure principles, when there is a balance between the number of positive charges from protons and the number of negative charges from electrons, the atom is neutral. The number of neutrons contributes to the mass of the atom but does not affect its charge.