Which (if any) of the following can be determined by knowing the number of protons in a neutral element? Explain your answer. a. the number of neutrons in the neutral element b. the number of electrons in the neutral element c. the name of the element

Short Answer

Expert verified
In a neutral element, knowing the number of protons allows us to determine the number of electrons and the name of the element, as the number of protons (atomic number) determines the element's identity, and in a neutral element, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons. However, the number of neutrons cannot be determined by knowing the number of protons, as neutrons can have different numbers in different isotopes of the same element.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Protons, Neutrons and Electrons

In a neutral atom, there are three subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons have a positive charge, electrons have a negative charge, and neutrons have no charge. Protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus, while electrons orbit the nucleus in energy levels.
02

Knowing the Number of Protons

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom is called the atomic number, which determines the identity of an element. In a neutral atom, the number of protons is equal to the number of electrons, ensuring the overall charge of the atom is neutral. However, it does not provide direct information about the number of neutrons, which can vary for different isotopes of the same element. Now, looking at each option given in the exercise: a. the number of neutrons in the neutral element:
03

Determining Neutrons

Knowing the number of protons (atomic number) does not directly give information about the number of neutrons in the neutral element, as neutrons can have different numbers in different isotopes of the same element. b. the number of electrons in the neutral element:
04

Determining Electrons

In a neutral element (atom), the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons. Therefore, knowing the number of protons in the neutral element allows determining the exact number of electrons. c. the name of the element:
05

Determining the Name of the Element

The number of protons (atomic number) determines the identity of the element. Each element has a unique atomic number, so knowing the number of protons allows us to know the name of the element. In conclusion: - The number of neutrons cannot be determined by knowing the number of protons in a neutral element. - The number of electrons can be determined by knowing the number of protons in a neutral element. - The name of the element can be determined by knowing the number of protons in a neutral element.

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