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Multiple Choice
An atom has a mass number of 32 and 17 neutrons. What is the atomic number of this atom?
A
49
B
32
C
17
D
15
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the relationship between mass number, atomic number, and number of neutrons. The mass number (A) is the sum of the number of protons (atomic number, Z) and the number of neutrons (N) in an atom: A = Z + N.
Identify the given values in the problem: the mass number (A) is 32, and the number of neutrons (N) is 17.
Use the formula A = Z + N to find the atomic number (Z). Rearrange the formula to solve for Z: Z = A - N.
Substitute the given values into the rearranged formula: Z = 32 - 17.
Calculate the result to find the atomic number, which represents the number of protons in the atom.