How many neutrons are there in a phosphorus atom?
I believe the answer is b. 16
a. 15
b. 16
c. 31.
d. none
The number of neutrons is:
(mass number) - (atomic number)
The mass number of the most common isotope of phosphorus is 31 (the rounded off atomic mass). I will let you look up the atomic number and do the subtraction.
31 - 15 =16 so the answer is 16
To determine the number of neutrons in a phosphorus atom, you need to know its atomic number and mass number. The atomic number of phosphorus is 15, which represents the number of protons in its nucleus. The mass number of phosphorus is typically given as 31.
To calculate the number of neutrons, subtract the atomic number from the mass number. In this case, subtract 15 from 31: 31 - 15 = 16.
Therefore, the correct answer is b. 16.