Chapter 2: Problem 106
A monatomic ion has a charge of \(+2 .\) The nucleus of the parent atom has a mass number of \(55 .\) If the number of neutrons in the nucleus is 1.2 times that of the number of protons, what is the name and symbol of the element?
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Monatomic Ions
When an atom becomes a monatomic ion, its identity doesn't change; it remains the same element, but with a different net charge. The charge is indicated as a superscript after the element's symbol, helping identify how many electrons have been lost or gained.
Understanding monatomic ions is crucial in chemistry because they play vital roles in forming compounds and understanding chemical reactions.
Mass Number
For manganese in our example, the mass number is 55. This means that the nucleus contains 55 nucleons in total. The mass number is not the same as the atomic mass found on the periodic table, as the latter is an average of all existing isotopes of an element.
By understanding the mass number, we can calculate the number of neutrons if the number of protons is known, using the formula: - Total nucleons (mass number) = Number of protons + Number of neutrons.
Protons and Neutrons
The number of protons in an atom is crucial as it defines the element. In the manganese example, there are 25 protons, which identifies the atom as manganese (Mn). This number is also known as the atomic number.
Neutrons add mass to the atom but do not change its chemical identity. They play a role in stabilizing the nucleus. In our example, the number of neutrons is calculated by multiplying the number of protons by 1.2, resulting in 30 neutrons.
Understanding the balance and count of these particles is fundamental in predicting the behavior and stability of an atom.
Chemical Elements
Each element, like manganese (Mn), has unique properties and behaviors. Manganese, identified by having 25 protons, is a transition metal known for forming various oxidation states, which makes it useful in many industrial processes.
Recognizing elements through their number of protons allows chemists to predict chemical reactions and properties. Elements can combine to form compounds, contributing to the vast variety of matter in the universe.
Understanding chemical elements is fundamental in chemistry, as it provides the basis for understanding material composition, reactions, and the formation of new substances.