How many protons are present in an atom of gallium (Ga)?

• A. 69
• B. 45
• C. 39
• D. 31

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the element in question, which is gallium (Ga).
2. Recall that the number of protons in an atom is equal to the atomic number of the element.
3. Look up the atomic number of gallium on the periodic table; this number is unique to each element and represents the number of protons.
4. Note that the atomic number of gallium is 31, meaning it has 31 protons.
5. Understand that the other numbers given (69, 45, 39) could represent mass number or other values, but the proton count is determined solely by the atomic number.