Question

Knowing the number of protons in the atom of a neutral element enables you to determine which of the following? a. the number of neutrons in the atom of the neutral element b. the number of electrons in the atom of the neutral element c. the name of the element d. two of the above e. none of the above Explain.

Short answer

Based on the given number of protons in a neutral atom, we can determine the number of electrons (option B) and the name of the element (option C). The correct answer is \(d.\) two of the above (b. and c.).

Step-by-step solution

1. Given Information

We are given the number of protons in the atom of a neutral element.

2. Neutral Atom

In a neutral atom, the number of protons (positively charged particles) equals the number of electrons (negatively charged particles).

3. Determine Number of Electrons

Using the information in Step 2, we know that if we are given the number of protons, we can determine the number of electrons in the atom of the neutral element. So, option B is correct.

4. Atomic Number and Name of Element

The atomic number of an element is equivalent to the number of protons present in the atom. Each element has a unique atomic number which helps to identify its name. Using the given number of protons, we can identify the atomic number and thus determine the name of the element. So, option C is correct.

5. Number of Neutrons

There is no direct relation between the number of protons and the number of neutrons in an atom, and knowing the number of protons won't enable us to determine the number of neutrons in the atom of a neutral element. So, option A is incorrect.

6. Conclusion

Based on our analysis, we can determine the number of electrons in the atom of the neutral element (option B) and the name of the element (option C) using the given number of protons. The correct answer is d. two of the above (b. and c.).

Key concepts

Neutral Atoms

A neutral atom is a fundamental concept in atomic structure. Atoms are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons. In a neutral atom, the number of protons, which are positively charged, is equal to the number of electrons, which are negatively charged. This balance between protons and electrons ensures that the atom has no net electrical charge.

To help visualize this, think of an atom as a small universe where balance is crucial. Any imbalance, such as having more electrons than protons, results in a charged atom, known as an ion. But in neutral atoms, charges counteract each other perfectly.

Keeping this balance in mind can help you understand why knowing the number of protons in a neutral atom allows you to determine the number of electrons as well.

Atomic Number

The atomic number is a key concept in understanding the identity of an element. It represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. Each element on the periodic table has a unique atomic number.

• This number not only defines the element but also serves as its ID across the universe.
• For instance, hydrogen, with an atomic number of 1, is the simplest element and contains one proton in its nucleus.

You can think of the atomic number as a kind of fingerprint for an element. Since each element has a unique number of protons, the atomic number is instrumental in identifying the element's name, as it is directly linked to the number of protons.

If you know the atomic number, you can immediately identify the element by referencing the periodic table, as each number corresponds uniquely to one element.

Protons and Electrons

Protons and electrons play fundamental roles in the structure of atoms. Protons are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom, and they carry a positive charge. Electrons, on the other hand, orbit the nucleus and carry a negative charge.

In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons, resulting in no overall charge. This equality is crucial for the stability of the atom, as the positive and negative charges cancel each other out.

• The behavior of electrons, which are lighter and more mobile than protons, is critical in chemical reactions and bonding.
• Protons, being much heavier and located in the nucleus, remain unchanged during ordinary chemical reactions.

Remember, the unique combination of protons and electrons not only defines the element but also dictates how it interacts with other atoms. These particles are central to the chemistry of life and materials.