The atomic number equals the number of __________ in an atom.
A)neutrons
B)protons
C)protons plus electrons
D)neutrons plus protons

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The atomic number of an atom is equal to the number of protons in its nucleus. This is because the atomic number represents the number of positive charges in the nucleus, which is equal to the number of negatively charged electrons that surround it to give the atom its overall neutrality. Neutrons are the particles in the nucleus that have no charge, so they do not determine the overall charge or identity of the atom. The number of electrons in an atom can vary, but the atomic number specifically refers to the number of protons.

The Atomic Number Equals the Number of __________ in an Atom