What is nuclear charge?

Nuclear charge refers specifically to the charge of the nucleus of an atom, primarily stemming from the protons it contains. Since protons carry a positive charge, the nuclear charge is a significant factor in determining the atom's overall properties, such as its size and the energy levels of its electrons.

Understanding nuclear charge is vital because it influences how strongly the nucleus can attract electrons. The greater the number of protons in the nucleus, the higher the nuclear charge, which leads to a stronger attraction between the nucleus and the surrounding electrons. This affects various chemical behaviors, including ionization energy and electronegativity.

While other terms in the answer choices discuss related aspects of atomic charge, they do not accurately define nuclear charge as it is understood in chemistry. The choice that identifies nuclear charge as the charge of the nucleus captures this concept effectively and highlights the importance of protons in establishing the positive charge that characterizes the nucleus.