If there is no charge, how many protons are in an ion?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the relationship between charge and the number of protons in an ion. In general, the number of protons in an ion is equal to its atomic number, which defines the element. A neutral atom has equal numbers of protons and electrons, but an ion can have a different number of electrons. Therefore, if there is no charge (meaning the ion is neutral), it indicates that the number of electrons equals the number of protons, making it a neutral atom rather than an ion.
Answer
The number of protons in an ion is the same as the atomic number of the element.
If there is no charge, the ion must have the same number of protons as electrons, and thus, the number of protons in an ion is equal to the atomic number of the element.
Answer for screen readers
If there is no charge, the ion must have the same number of protons as electrons, and thus, the number of protons in an ion is equal to the atomic number of the element.
More Information
When forming an ion, the number of protons, which define the element, never changes. It's the electrons that may be gained or lost, causing the charge.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing protons with electrons in ions. Protons define the element and remain constant, while electrons change to form ions.
Sources
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