How many neutrons are present in the nucleus of a germanium (Ge) atom with a mass number of 73?

• A. 32
• B. 34
• C. 73
• D. 41

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the atomic number (Z) of germanium (Ge), which is the number of protons in the nucleus. For Ge, Z = 32.
2. Recall that the mass number (A) is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. Here, A = 73.
3. Use the relationship between mass number, protons, and neutrons: \(\text{Number of neutrons} = A - Z\).
4. Substitute the known values into the formula: \(\text{Number of neutrons} = 73 - 32\).
5. Calculate the difference to find the number of neutrons in the germanium atom.