In a neutral atom of lithium (Li), how many protons are in the nucleus?

• A. 6
• B. 3
• C. 2
• D. 7

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom is equal to the atomic number of the element.
2. Identify the element given in the problem, which is lithium (Li).
3. Look up the atomic number of lithium on the periodic table; this number represents the number of protons.
4. Understand that a neutral atom has an equal number of protons and electrons, but the number of protons is fixed by the element's identity.
5. Conclude that the number of protons in a neutral lithium atom is the atomic number of lithium.