Answer: Option (b) is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Every atom consists of three sub-atomic particles which are protons, neutrons and electrons.
Inside the nucleus of an atom, there will be only protons and neutrons. Whereas electrons revolve around the nucleus of an atom.
Protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge and electrons have a negative charge.
So, when the given atom has a total negative charge of the area surrounding the nucleus is -9. Then it means there are nine electrons present in the atom because a negative charge is contained.
Thus, we can conclude that the statement this atom has nine electrons, correctly describes this atom.