An atom of zinc has an atomic number of 30 and a mass number of 65. How many neutrons does this atom contain? Give your answer to the nearest whole number.

• A. 65
• B. 30
• C. 25
• D. 35

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the atomic number (Z) of the zinc atom, which is given as 30. The atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus of the atom.
2. Identify the mass number (A) of the zinc atom, which is given as 65. The mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
3. Recall the relationship between mass number, atomic number, and neutrons: \(A = Z + N\), where \(N\) is the number of neutrons.
4. Rearrange the formula to solve for the number of neutrons: \(N = A - Z\).
5. Substitute the given values into the equation: \(N = 65 - 30\), which will give the number of neutrons in the zinc atom.