Which of the following is represented in an atom's Lewis dot symbol?

• A. The total number of protons in the atom
• B. The number of neutrons in the nucleus
• C. The number of valence electrons around the atom
• D. The atomic mass of the element

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a Lewis dot symbol is a way to represent the valence electrons of an atom, which are the electrons in the outermost shell involved in chemical bonding.
2. Recall that the Lewis dot symbol places dots around the chemical symbol of the element to indicate the number of valence electrons.
3. Recognize that the total number of protons (atomic number) and the number of neutrons are properties of the nucleus and are not shown in the Lewis dot symbol.
4. Note that the atomic mass is the sum of protons and neutrons and is also not represented in the Lewis dot symbol.
5. Conclude that the Lewis dot symbol specifically represents the number of valence electrons around the atom.