How many protons and electrons are present in a neutral atom of vanadium (V)?

• A. 25 protons and 25 electrons
• B. 24 protons and 24 electrons
• C. 23 protons and 23 electrons
• D. 22 protons and 22 electrons

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the atomic number of vanadium (V) from the periodic table. The atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.
2. Recall that in a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons to balance the positive charge of protons with the negative charge of electrons.
3. Look up the atomic number of vanadium, which is 23. This means a neutral vanadium atom has 23 protons.
4. Since the atom is neutral, it must also have 23 electrons to balance the charge.
5. Conclude that a neutral atom of vanadium has 23 protons and 23 electrons.