An element has an atomic number of 76. What is the number of protons and electrons in a neutral atom of the element?

1 Answer
anor277
Oct 7, 2016

The number of (i) protons and (ii) electrons, are each #76#.

Explanation:

By definition, the atomic number, #Z#, is the number of protons, positively charged, massive, nuclear particles, contained in the nucleus. #Z# specifies the identity of the atom.

And if there are 76 positively charged particles, there must also be 76 negatively charged particles, 76 electrons, associated with the atom.

What is the atom?

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