In terms of the numbers of protons, neutrons and electrons: a) Why does the notation \({ }^{13} \mathrm{C}^{-}\) have a negative sign in the upper right hand corner? b) What feature distinguishes a neutral atom from an ion? c) Provide an expression for calculating the charge on an ion.

Short Answer

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a) The negative sign in the atomic notation represents additional electron(s) compared to protons, hence the atom is negatively charged. b) A neutral atom has equal number of protons and electrons, while an ion does not, hence it is charged. c) The charge on an ion can be determined by using the formula: \(Charge = number of protons - number of electrons\).

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Atomic Notation

The notation \({ }^{13} \mathrm{C}^{-}\) is for a Carbon isotope that has a mass number of 13. The number in the upper right corner is the ion charge. The negative sign indicates that there is one additional electron compared to the number of protons.
02

Differentiating a Neutral Atom from an Ion

A neutral atom is an atom that has equal number of protons and electrons, which means the atom is not charged because the positive protons and the negative electrons cancel out each other. On the other hand, an ion is an atom that has lost or gained electrons, therefore it will have a positive or negative charge.
03

Expression for Calculating the Charge on an Ion

The charge on an ion can be calculated using the formula: \(Charge = number of protons - number of electrons\). If the differential is positive, the ion is positively charged (called a cation). On the contrary, if the differential is negative, the ion will be negatively charged (named an anion).

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