How many protons, neutrons, and electrons are in Potassium, Nitrogen, and oxygen?
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
- Potassium (K):
Protons: 19
Neutrons: 20 (for the most common isotope, K-39)
Electrons: 19 - Nitrogen (N):
Protons: 7
Neutrons: 7 (for the most common isotope, N-14)
Electrons: 7 - Oxygen (O):
Protons: 8
Neutrons: 8 (for the most common isotope, O-16)
Electrons: 8
Explanation:
Every atom consists of three subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons. The number of protons defines the element and is equal to the atomic number, which can be found on the periodic table. Electrons are equal to protons in a neutral atom, keeping the overall charge balanced. Neutrons are found by subtracting the atomic number from the atomic mass number, usually rounded to the nearest whole number based on the most common isotope.
For Potassium (K), the atomic number is 19, so it has 19 protons and 19 electrons in a neutral atom. The most abundant isotope of potassium is potassium-39. Subtracting 19 from 39 gives 20 neutrons.
Nitrogen (N) has an atomic number of 7, which means it contains 7 protons and 7 electrons. The most common isotope is nitrogen-14. Subtracting the atomic number (7) from the mass number (14) gives 7 neutrons.
Oxygen (O) has an atomic number of 8. A neutral oxygen atom has 8 protons and 8 electrons. The most common isotope is oxygen-16, and subtracting the atomic number (8) from the mass number (16) gives 8 neutrons.
This breakdown allows for an accurate understanding of the atomic structure, which is fundamental in chemistry and helps explain how elements react and bond with others in compounds.