The atomic number is the
A)same as the mass number of an atom.
B)number of protons in a nucleus.
C)number of protons and neutrons in a nucleus.
D)number of neutrons in a nucleus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The atomic number of an atom is equal to the number of protons in the nucleus, which determines the element's identity. The mass number of an atom, on the other hand, is the sum of its protons and neutrons. Therefore, option A and C are incorrect. The number of neutrons in a nucleus can be determined by subtracting the atomic number from the mass number, making option D incorrect.

The Atomic Number Is the