Question

Which of the following describes a neutral atom of oxygen? A- 6 protons, 6 neutrons, 6 electrons B- 6 protons, 6 neutrons, 8 electrons C- 8 protons, 8 neutrons, 10 electrons D- 8 protons, 8 neutrons, 8 electrons Can someone explain this to me? I don't understand how to get an answer. Thank you!

Answer 1

I think I may be c im not for shore

Answer 2

Answer:

D- 8 protons, 8 neutrons, 8 electrons

Explanation:

A neutral atom is one in which the number of negative charges balances the number of positive charges.

Positive charge component of atom is the proton

Negative charge component of an atom is the electron.

Hence, for a neutral atom, number of proton = number of electron

Also, number of proton in an element = atomic number of the element

Oxygen has atomic number of 8. Hence the number of proton is also equal to 8. In addition, since proton number = electron number for a neutral atom, the number of electron is also equal to 8.

The correct answer is D.