What term describes a stable configuration of electrons that does not result in a net charge?

The term that describes a stable configuration of electrons resulting in no net charge is a neutral atom. A neutral atom has an equal number of protons, which are positively charged, and electrons, which are negatively charged. This balance ensures that the overall charge of the atom is zero, leading to its stability.

In contrast, an ion forms when an atom either gains or loses electrons. This process creates a charge imbalance, resulting in a positively charged cation or a negatively charged anion, which does not align with the definition of a stable, charge-free configuration.

A molecule is composed of two or more atoms that are chemically bonded together, and while molecules can be neutral, the term itself does not specifically imply that the overall charge is zero. Additionally, a compound is a type of molecule made up of different types of atoms, and similarly, compounds can also be neutral or charged based on their composition and bonding. However, the focus here is on the individual stable entities, which are classified as neutral atoms when in terms of net charge.