Question

The atomic number of an atom identifies the number of protons in its nucleus.

If the overall charge on the atom is neutral, what must the atomic number also identify?

A.
the most common isotope's mass

B.
the average mass of all isotopes of the atom

C.
the number of electrons in the atom

D.
the number of neutrons in the atom

Answer 1

Take a look at the picture that I've posted.

See the number on TOP (6)?
That's the atomic NUMBER

And the number on the BOTTOM (12)...
that's the atomic MASS.

The atomic NUMBER tells us how many PROTONS and ELECTRONS the atom has.

Again, look at the picture.

Carbon has 6 protons, as well as 6 electrons.
Because the atomic number at the top is 6.

The atomic MASS tells us how many PROTONS and NEUTRONS the atom as, ALL TOGETHER.

So, all of carbon's protons and all of carbon's neutrons, TOGETHER, equal 12.

Answer 2

So it's C then? Since The atomic number tells us how many protons and electrons the atom has.

Answer 3

Yep

Answer 4

Okay thank you! :D