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Multiple Choice
The number of protons in an uncharged atom __________.
A
equals the number of neutrons
B
varies from isotope to isotope
C
equals the number of electrons in the outer orbital of the atom
D
equals the number of electrons
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that an uncharged atom is electrically neutral, meaning the total positive charge from protons equals the total negative charge from electrons.
Recall that protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom, while electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus.
In a neutral atom, the number of protons must equal the number of electrons to balance the charges and maintain neutrality.
Neutrons are neutral particles in the nucleus and do not affect the charge balance, so the number of protons does not necessarily equal the number of neutrons.
Recognize that while isotopes of an element have the same number of protons, they can have different numbers of neutrons, which does not affect the charge balance in a neutral atom.