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Multiple Choice
How many protons are present in an ion that has 18 electrons and a -1 charge?
A
16
B
18
C
17
D
19
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the number of protons in an atom or ion is equal to its atomic number, which defines the element.
Recall that the charge of an ion is given by the difference between the number of protons and electrons: $\text{Charge} = \text{Protons} - \text{Electrons}$.
Given the ion has 18 electrons and a charge of -1, set up the equation: $-1 = \text{Protons} - 18$.
Solve for the number of protons: $\text{Protons} = -1 + 18$.
Interpret the result to identify the number of protons in the ion.