If a neutral atom has 44 protons in its nucleus, the number of surrounding electrons is: a. less than 44 b. 44 c. more than 44 d. unknown
Answered on
Given the statement:
A neutral atom has 44 protons in its nucleus.
Determine the number of surrounding electrons.
Explanation:
In order to determine the number of surrounding Electrons, we must take a look at the basic information in a periodic table that must always be remembered
Atomic Number = Number of Protons = Number of Electrons
Mass Number = Atomic Number + Number of Neutrons
Number of Neutrons = Mass Number - Atomic Number
Atomic Number = Mass Number - Number of Neutrons.
It can be seen that the number of protons is equal to the number of neutrons, whereas it is also states that the atom is a neutral atom, therefore there is no charge in the atom. Based on the information given, the number of protons is then equal to the number of electrons.
Final answer:
44 electrons.