Question

What is the full name for an atom with 20 protons and 14 neutrons?

Answer 1

Answer:

Calcium-34 or ³⁴₂₀ Ca

Explanation:

An atom is always identified by the number of protons it has. Since this atom has 20 atoms, you can identify it by looking on a periodic table for the element with 20 protons, which is calcium. Since this atom also has 14 neutrons (making it an isotope, which is another discussion altogether), you have to make sure that you recognize it in the naming. Proper isotope notation (naming) says you have to write it either as Calcium-34 (in which you add 20 protons and 14 neutrons to get 34) or as ³⁴₂₀ Ca (20 protons + 14 neutrons = 34 on the top and 20 protons on the bottom).