Question

In which of the following sets is the element symbol, number of protons and number of electrons correctly given? a) K, 39p+, 19e- b) K, 39p+, 39e- or c) K, 19p+, 19e- a, b or c ?

Answer 1

The correct set is (c) K, 19p+, 19e-.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct set is (c) K, 19p+, 19e-.

Each element on the periodic table is uniquely identified by its symbol, atomic number (number of protons), and number of electrons. The symbol for potassium is K, it has 19 protons in its nucleus, and in a neutral atom, it also has 19 electrons.

Option (a) has 39 protons and 19 electrons, which is incorrect since the number of electrons should be equal to the number of protons in a neutral atom.

Option (b) has 39 protons and 39 electrons. This is incorrect because the atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus and should be equal to the number of electrons in a neutral atom.