Which of the following correctly represents the atomic symbol and mass number for an atom containing 50 protons and 64 neutrons?

• A. Sn-64
• B. Sn-114
• C. Xe-114
• D. Xe-50

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the element by its number of protons. The atomic number (Z) is equal to the number of protons. Here, Z = 50, which corresponds to the element tin (Sn) on the periodic table.
2. Calculate the mass number (A) by adding the number of protons and neutrons: \(A = \text{protons} + \text{neutrons} = 50 + 64\).
3. Write the atomic symbol using the element symbol (Sn) and the mass number as a superscript or in the hyphen notation: \(^{A}_{Z}\text{Sn}\) or Sn-\(A\).
4. Compare the calculated mass number with the options given to find the correct representation. The correct mass number should match the sum of protons and neutrons.
5. Confirm that the element symbol matches the atomic number and that the mass number is correctly calculated to select the correct atomic symbol and mass number.