how many neutrons r there in a phosphorus atom
P atoms have atomic weight = 31. Since the atomic number (of protons) is 15, the number of neutrons is 31-15 = 16.
To find the number of neutrons in a phosphorus atom, we need to understand the atomic structure of phosphorus. Phosphorus has an atomic number of 15, which means it has 15 protons in its nucleus. The atomic number represents the number of protons in an element.
To calculate the number of neutrons, we need to find the atomic mass of phosphorus. The atomic mass is the sum of the protons and neutrons in the nucleus. The atomic mass of phosphorus is approximately 31.
To find the number of neutrons, subtract the atomic number (protons) from the atomic mass. In this case, subtract 15 from 31:
31 (atomic mass) - 15 (atomic number) = 16 neutrons.
Therefore, there are 16 neutrons in a phosphorus atom.