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Multiple Choice
A neutral atom of which element contains 10 electrons?
A
Neon (Ne)
B
Fluorine (F)
C
Sodium (Na)
D
Oxygen (O)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Recall that a neutral atom has an equal number of protons and electrons.
Identify the atomic number of each element, which equals the number of protons (and electrons in a neutral atom): Fluorine (F) = 9, Neon (Ne) = 10, Sodium (Na) = 11, Oxygen (O) = 8.
Compare the atomic numbers to find which element has 10 electrons in its neutral state.
Recognize that Neon (Ne) has an atomic number of 10, meaning it has 10 protons and 10 electrons when neutral.
Conclude that the neutral atom with 10 electrons is Neon (Ne).