Which element has an atom that contains exactly 8 electrons in its neutral state?

• A. Carbon
• B. Oxygen
• C. Fluorine
• D. Nitrogen

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that a neutral atom has the same number of protons and electrons.
2. Identify the atomic number of each element, which equals the number of protons (and electrons in a neutral atom): Carbon (6), Nitrogen (7), Oxygen (8), Fluorine (9).
3. Since the question asks for an atom with exactly 8 electrons, look for the element with atomic number 8.
4. Recognize that Oxygen has an atomic number of 8, meaning a neutral oxygen atom contains 8 electrons.
5. Conclude that the element with exactly 8 electrons in its neutral state is Oxygen.