$$\text{Mass Number} = \text{Number of Protons} + \text{Number of Neutrons}$$

Question 1

Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between atomic number and element identity?

Accepted Answer

The atomic number is equal to the number of protons, and changing it changes the element.

Question 2

A neutral atom of oxygen has an atomic number of 8 and a mass number of 16. How many neutrons does it contain?

Accepted Answer

8

Question 3

Which of the following is true regarding the location and charge of subatomic particles in an atom?

Accepted Answer

Neutrons are found in the nucleus and have a neutral charge, while electrons orbit the nucleus and have a negative charge.

Question 4

According to the octet rule, which of the following atoms is most likely to be chemically inert?

Accepted Answer

An atom with a full valence shell.

Question 5

Which formula correctly calculates the mass number of an atom?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Mass Number} = 	ext{Number of Protons} + 	ext{Number of Neutrons}$$

Question 6

A carbon atom has 6 protons, 6 neutrons, and 6 electrons. What is its atomic number and mass number?

Accepted Answer

Atomic number: 6, Mass number: 12

Question 7

Which of the following elements is NOT part of the CHNOPS bulk elements essential for life?

Accepted Answer

Calcium

Question 8

If a neutral nitrogen atom has an atomic number of 7, what is the correct electron distribution in its energy shells?

Accepted Answer

First shell: 2 electrons, Second shell: 5 electrons

Question 9

Which statement best explains why changing the number of neutrons in an atom does not change the element?

Accepted Answer

Neutrons only affect the mass number and can create isotopes, but the element is defined by the number of protons.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the atomic mass (atomic weight) of an element as shown on the periodic table?

Accepted Answer

It is the average mass of all atoms of that element, including isotopes.

Question 11

Which of the following is a trace element required for life in very small amounts?

Accepted Answer

Iron

Question 12

A neutral atom has 15 protons, 16 neutrons, and 15 electrons. What is its atomic number, mass number, and net charge?

Accepted Answer

Atomic number: 15, Mass number: 31, Net charge: 0

Question 13

Which of the following best describes valence electrons?

Accepted Answer

Electrons found in the outermost energy shell, responsible for chemical reactivity.

Question 14

Which equation would you use to determine the net charge of an atom?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Net Charge} = 	ext{Number of Protons} - 	ext{Number of Electrons}$$

Question 15

Which scenario would result in an atom becoming an ion?

Accepted Answer

The atom gains or loses electrons, resulting in a net charge.

Question 16

Which of the following is true about the first and second energy shells in most biological atoms?

Accepted Answer

The first shell holds up to 2 electrons, and the second shell holds up to 8 electrons.

Question 17

A diamond is composed entirely of carbon atoms. Which statement best explains why it is considered a chemical element?

Accepted Answer

It is made up of only one type of atom, carbon, which defines it as a pure chemical element.

Question 18

Which of the following would be the correct electron configuration for a neutral phosphorus atom (atomic number 15)?

Accepted Answer

First shell: 2 electrons, Second shell: 8 electrons, Third shell: 5 electrons

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the difference between mass number and atomic mass?

Accepted Answer

Mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons in a single atom, while atomic mass is the average mass of all atoms of an element.

Atomic Structure and the Chemistry of Life: Foundations for Anatomy & Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions