How many electrons are in a neutral atom of sodium?

1 Answer
anor277
Jan 29, 2016

There are 11 electrons in an isolated atom of sodium.

Explanation:

From the periodic table we know that #Z#, the atomic number, #=# #11# for sodium. The sodium nucleus thus contains 11 positively charged particles. To balance this charge (this is a NEUTRAL metal atom!) there must be 11 electrons, 11 negatively charged particles circling the nucleus.

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