An atom has an atomic number of 6 and a mass number of 14. How many neutrons does this atom have?

• A. 8
• B. 14
• C. 20
• D. 6

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the atomic number and mass number given in the problem. The atomic number (Z) is 6, and the mass number (A) is 14.
2. Recall that the atomic number represents the number of protons in the atom. So, the number of protons is 6.
3. Understand that the mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of the atom.
4. Use the formula to find the number of neutrons (N): \(N = A - Z\), where \(A\) is the mass number and \(Z\) is the atomic number.
5. Substitute the values into the formula: \(N = 14 - 6\), which gives the number of neutrons.