How many protons and electrons are there in a neutral atom of each of the following elements?a. argon

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the atomic number of argon from the periodic table. The atomic number represents the number of protons in an atom.
2. Since the atom is neutral, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons.
3. Look up argon's atomic number, which is 18.
4. Conclude that a neutral atom of argon has 18 protons.
5. Conclude that a neutral atom of argon also has 18 electrons.

Key Concepts

Atomic Structure

An atom consists of three primary subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons are positively charged and reside in the nucleus, while neutrons are neutral and also found in the nucleus. Electrons are negatively charged and orbit the nucleus in electron shells. The number of protons defines the element, while the number of electrons in a neutral atom equals the number of protons.

Element Identification

Each element is defined by its atomic number, which is the number of protons in its nucleus. For example, argon has an atomic number of 18, meaning it has 18 protons. This atomic number also indicates that a neutral atom of argon will have 18 electrons, balancing the positive charge of the protons with negative charges from the electrons.

Neutral Atoms

A neutral atom has an equal number of protons and electrons, resulting in no overall charge. This balance is crucial for the stability of the atom. In the case of argon, being a noble gas, it is chemically stable and does not readily gain or lose electrons, further emphasizing the importance of its neutral state in chemical behavior.