Yes, the atomic number of an atom is always equal to the number of electrons in a neutral atom. The atomic number (Z) of an element represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. In a neutral atom, the number of protons is equal to the number of electrons because the positive charge of the protons is balanced by the negative charge of the electrons. This balance of charges results in an overall neutral charge for the atom. Therefore, the atomic number also represents the number of electrons in a neutral atom.