Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the difference between a molecule and an atom?
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2. Atoms & Elements
The Atom
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How many electrons are present in a neutral atom of phosphorus?
A
31
B
14
C
15
D
16
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that in a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons.
Identify the atomic number of phosphorus, which represents the number of protons in the nucleus of the atom.
Look up the atomic number of phosphorus on the periodic table; phosphorus has an atomic number of 15.
Since the atom is neutral, the number of electrons must also be 15 to balance the positive charge of the protons.
Therefore, the number of electrons in a neutral phosphorus atom is equal to its atomic number, which is 15.
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