How many electrons surround the nucleus of a triply ionized magnesium atom,Mg IV?
A) 9
B) 12
C) 11
D) 15

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For a neutral magnesium atom, its atomic number is 12, meaning it has 12 electrons surrounding its nucleus. However, the question specifies a triply ionized magnesium ion, meaning that three electrons have been removed from the original atom. Therefore, the resulting Mg IV ion has 12 - 3 = 9 electrons surrounding its nucleus. Therefore, the best choice is A) 9.

How Many Electrons Surround the Nucleus of a Triply Ionized