Multiple Choice
What is the number of electrons in a neutral potassium atom?
2. Atoms & Elements
The Atom
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What does the atomic number of an element indicate?
A
The number of electrons in a neutral atom
B
The number of neutrons in the nucleus of an atom
C
The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom
D
The total number of protons and neutrons in an atom
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the atomic number is a fundamental property of an element that defines its identity.
Recognize that the atomic number is equal to the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.
Recall that in a neutral atom, the number of protons is equal to the number of electrons, but the atomic number specifically refers to protons.
Differentiate between atomic number and mass number: the mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in an atom.
Conclude that the atomic number is crucial for determining the element's position in the periodic table and its chemical properties.
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