The combined number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom is called _________.
period
atomic mass
atomic number
cation
metals
atomic mass
The combined number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom is called the atomic mass.
The combined number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom is called the atomic mass.
To determine the atomic mass of an atom, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Find the atomic number of the atom. The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom and is usually written as a subscript to the left of the chemical symbol. It gives you information about the element's identity.
Step 2: Locate the atomic mass or mass number of the atom. The atomic mass is the sum of the protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom. It is usually written as a superscript to the left of the chemical symbol.
Step 3: Subtract the atomic number from the atomic mass. The difference between the atomic mass and the atomic number gives you the number of neutrons in the nucleus of the atom. Neutrons do not influence the element's identity, but they contribute to its mass.
Therefore, when the question asks about the combined number of protons and neutrons, the term "atomic mass" is the correct answer.