How many protons, neutrons, and electrons are in each of the following atoms? (b)

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Step 1: Identify the atomic number (Z) and the atomic mass number (A) of the atom. The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, and it is unique to each element. The atomic mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.

Step 2: Determine the number of protons in the atom. This is equal to the atomic number (Z).

Step 3: Determine the number of neutrons in the atom. This is calculated by subtracting the atomic number (Z) from the atomic mass number (A).

Step 4: Determine the number of electrons in the atom. In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons (atomic number). If the atom is an ion, the number of electrons will be the atomic number plus or minus the charge of the ion.

Step 5: Summarize your findings. State the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in the atom.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Atomic Structure

Atoms are the basic units of matter, consisting of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus, neutrons are neutral particles also located in the nucleus, and electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus. The number of protons defines the element, while the total number of protons and neutrons gives the atomic mass.

Atomic Number and Mass Number

The atomic number of an element is the number of protons in its nucleus, which determines the element's identity. The mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. For example, carbon has an atomic number of 6, meaning it has 6 protons, and its most common isotope has a mass number of 12, indicating it has 6 neutrons.

Charge Balance in Atoms

In a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons, balancing the overall charge. If an atom gains or loses electrons, it becomes an ion, which can be positively charged (cation) or negatively charged (anion). Understanding this balance is crucial for determining the electron count in various atoms.