Which of the following atoms has the same number of neutrons as 14C?

• A. 15N
• B. 12C
• C. 14N
• D. 16O

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the number of neutrons in the given isotope \(^{14}\mathrm{C}\). The number of neutrons is calculated by subtracting the atomic number (number of protons) from the mass number: \(\text{neutrons} = A - Z\).
2. For \(^{14}\mathrm{C}\), the atomic number \(Z\) is 6 (since carbon has 6 protons), and the mass number \(A\) is 14. Calculate the neutrons: \$14 - 6 = 8$ neutrons.
3. Next, calculate the number of neutrons for each of the other atoms listed by subtracting their atomic number from their mass number:
4. - For \(^{15}\mathrm{N}\): atomic number 7, neutrons = \$15 - 7 = 8$.
5. - For \(^{12}\mathrm{C}\): atomic number 6, neutrons = \$12 - 6 = 6$.
6. - For \(^{14}\mathrm{N}\): atomic number 7, neutrons = \$14 - 7 = 7$.
7. - For \(^{16}\mathrm{O}\): atomic number 8, neutrons = \$16 - 8 = 8$.
8. Compare the neutron counts to find which atoms have the same number of neutrons as \(^{14}\mathrm{C}\) (which has 8 neutrons). The atoms with 8 neutrons are \(^{15}\mathrm{N}\) and \(^{16}\mathrm{O}\). Since the problem states the correct answer is \(^{16}\mathrm{O}\), recognize that it also has the same neutron number.