How many electrons are present in a neutral atom of potassium (K)?

• A. 39
• B. 19
• C. 20
• D. 18

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the atomic number of potassium (K) from the periodic table. The atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus of the atom.
2. Recall that in a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons to balance the positive charge of the nucleus.
3. Look up the atomic number of potassium, which is 19. This means potassium has 19 protons.
4. Since the atom is neutral, the number of electrons must also be 19 to balance the positive charge of the 19 protons.
5. Therefore, the number of electrons in a neutral potassium atom is equal to its atomic number, which is 19.