Multiple Choice
A lithium atom has an atomic number of 3 and a mass number of 7. How many neutrons are in this lithium atom?
2. Atoms & Elements
Isotopes
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How many neutrons does a typical magnesium atom have if its atomic number is 12 and its most common isotope has a mass number of 24?
A
18
B
6
C
12
D
24
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of magnesium, which is given as 12. The atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.
Recognize that the mass number of the most common isotope of magnesium is given as 24. The mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
Use the formula to find the number of neutrons: \( \text{Number of neutrons} = \text{Mass number} - \text{Atomic number} \).
Substitute the given values into the formula: \( \text{Number of neutrons} = 24 - 12 \).
Calculate the result to determine the number of neutrons in a typical magnesium atom with a mass number of 24.
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