Question

An atomic physicist determines that an atom is composed of 8 positively charged particles and has a mass of 15 amu. which is the best conclusion that can be drawn? 1.the atom has 7 neutrons and 8 protons. 2. the atom has 7 electrons and 8 protons. 3. the atoms has 8 neutrons and 7 electrons. 4. the atoms has 8 electrons and 7 protons.

Answer 1

1.the atom has 7 neutrons and 8 protons.

Step-by-step explanation:

In any atom positively charged particles are protons while the total mass of the atom is due to protons and neutrons both

So here we can say that

Number of protons in this atom is 8

Total number of neutron + protons = total mass

N + Z = 15

so we have

N + 8 = 15

N = 7

so correct answer will be

1.the atom has 7 neutrons and 8 protons.

Answer 2

1.the atom has 7 neutrons and 8 protons....

because the positively charged particles are the protons ...and 8 is also the atomic number ...so number of neutrons can be calculated by subtracting atomic number from the mass number...which gives us the neutrons 7 ...

Hope it helps !!!