what is meant by the statement "atoms are electically neutral?"

Question

anonymous · Answer

It means that the atom as a whole does not have any charge. 
If you look at the atom as a nuclei and his electrons you will find that the electrons have negative charge and the nuclei positive charge. However both are symmetric and the summation of them is zero. That's why It is said that the atom is electrically neutral!

unklerhaukus · Answer

an nuclear species is defined as an atom when it has electrons(-) in perfect balance with its protons(+)
a nuclear species with either more or less electron that protons is an electrically charged ion

anonymous · Answer

An atom contains electrons, protons and neutrons. Each of these structures contributes to the overall electrical charge of an atom. An atom that has not gained or lost any electrons is electrically neutral.

from eHow.com