Multiple Choice
A neutral atom of tellurium (Te) has atomic number 52. How many protons are in one Te atom?
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4. Atoms and Elements
Subatomic Particles (Simplified)
Multiple Choice
In atomic structure, how do you determine the mass number (A) of an element’s atom?
A
Add the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus: .
B
Add the number of protons and electrons: .
C
Subtract the number of neutrons from the number of protons: .
D
Use the atomic number only: .
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the mass number (A) of an atom represents the total number of nucleons in the nucleus, which includes both protons and neutrons.
Recall that the atomic number (Z) is the number of protons in the nucleus of the atom.
Recognize that neutrons (N) are neutral particles in the nucleus that contribute to the mass but not to the charge.
Use the formula to calculate the mass number: \(A = Z + N\), where \(A\) is the mass number, \(Z\) is the number of protons, and \(N\) is the number of neutrons.
Note that electrons do not significantly contribute to the mass number because their mass is negligible compared to protons and neutrons.
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