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Multiple Choice
An atom has 19 protons and 21 neutrons. What is its mass number?
A
21
B
40
C
38
D
19
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the number of protons in the atom, which is given as 19. The number of protons defines the atomic number and the element itself.
Identify the number of neutrons in the atom, which is given as 21. Neutrons contribute to the mass of the atom but do not affect the element's identity.
Recall that the mass number of an atom is the total number of protons and neutrons combined.
Use the formula for mass number: \(\text{Mass Number} = \text{Number of Protons} + \text{Number of Neutrons}\).
Substitute the given values into the formula: \(\text{Mass Number} = 19 + 21\) to find the mass number.