Proton Chemistry Example 1
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 1
easyA sulfur atom has 16 protons. What is its atomic number, and how does the number of protons relate to its identity as sulfur?
Solution
- 1 Recall that the atomic number is defined as the number of protons in the nucleus.
- 2 Read the atomic number from the periodic table: , so this atom has 16 protons.
- 3 Every atom with exactly 16 protons is sulfur (S), regardless of how many neutrons or electrons it has.
Answer
Protons define the identity of an element. The atomic number is simply the proton count and is the most fundamental property of an element.
About Proton
A positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of every atom, with a charge of and a mass of approximately 1 atomic mass.
Learn more about Proton →More Proton Examples
Example 2 medium
The mass of a single proton is approximately [formula] g. How many protons would it take to have a c
Example 3 easyHow many protons are in an atom of potassium (K, atomic number 19)?
Example 4 mediumWhy doesn't sodium turn into magnesium during an ordinary chemical reaction, even if electrons are l