How many protons does an atom of zinc contain

How many protons does an atom of zinc contain?

How many electrons does an atom of zinc contain?

How many neutrons does an atom of zinc contain?

The correct answer and explanation is:

An atom of zinc (Zn) contains:

• Protons: 30
• Electrons: 30
• Neutrons: 40

Explanation:

1. Protons: The number of protons in an atom defines the element. Zinc has an atomic number of 30, which means it contains 30 protons in its nucleus. The atomic number is unique for each element and determines the identity of the element. In this case, 30 identifies zinc.
2. Electrons: In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons, since the positive charge of protons is balanced by the negative charge of electrons. Therefore, a neutral zinc atom also contains 30 electrons. Electrons are located in energy levels or shells around the nucleus.
3. Neutrons: Neutrons are neutral particles found in the nucleus. The number of neutrons can be determined by subtracting the atomic number from the atomic mass. Zinc’s most common isotope is zinc-64 (with an atomic mass of about 64 atomic mass units). The number of neutrons is calculated as follows: Neutrons = Atomic mass – Atomic number
   Neutrons = 64 – 30 = 34 neutrons

However, zinc-70, a less common isotope, has an atomic mass of 70. In this case:

Neutrons = Atomic mass – Atomic number
Neutrons = 70 – 30 = 40 neutrons

So, depending on the isotope, the number of neutrons can vary. For zinc-70, the atom contains 40 neutrons.

In summary, a typical atom of zinc has 30 protons, 30 electrons, and about 40 neutrons (for the isotope zinc-70).