Silicon has an atomic number of 14 and a mass number of 28. How many neutrons does a typical atom of silicon contain?

• A. 28
• B. 12
• C. 14
• D. 14

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the atomic number (Z) of silicon, which is given as 14. The atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus of the atom.
2. Identify the mass number (A) of silicon, which is given as 28. The mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
3. Recall the relationship between mass number, atomic number, and neutrons: \(\text{Number of neutrons} = A - Z\).
4. Substitute the given values into the formula: \(\text{Number of neutrons} = 28 - 14\).
5. Calculate the difference to find the number of neutrons in a typical silicon atom.