Which element is represented by an atom that contains six protons and eight neutrons?

• A. Nitrogen-14
• B. Carbon-14
• C. Oxygen-14
• D. Carbon-12

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the element by the number of protons, since the number of protons (atomic number) defines the element. Here, the atom has 6 protons.
2. Recall that the element with 6 protons is Carbon, because the atomic number 6 corresponds to Carbon on the periodic table.
3. Determine the mass number of the atom by adding the number of protons and neutrons: mass number = protons + neutrons = 6 + 8.
4. Calculate the mass number to find the isotope notation, which is Carbon-14 in this case.
5. Match the isotope notation with the given options to confirm that the atom is Carbon-14.