An aqueous solution in which the concentration of H+ and OH– ions are equal (pH = 7).
Neutron
A subatomic particle contained within the nucleus of an atom. It carries no charge and has a mass
very slightly larger than that of a proton.
Noble gases
See Inert gases.
Nonelectrolyte
A compound that does not ionize in water.
Nonmetal
One of a class of elements with high ionization potentials and very negative electron affinities that
generally gains electrons to form anions. Nonmetals are located on the upper right side of the
periodic table.
Nonpolar covalent bond
A covalent bond between elements of the same electronegativity. There is no charge separation and
the atoms do not carry any partially positive or partially negative charge. Compare to Polar covalent
bond.
Nonpolar molecule
A molecule that exhibits no net separation of charge, and therefore no net dipole moment.
Normality (N)
A concentration unit equal to the number of gram equivalent weights of solute per liter of solution.
Nucleus