Final answer:
The ammonium ion, represented by NH4, consists of one nitrogen atom and four hydrogen atoms. The correct option that reflects this composition is 'c. Nitrogen: 1, Hydrogen: 4.'
Step-by-step explanation:
The formula NH4 represents the ammonium ion. In this formula, 'N' stands for nitrogen and 'H' stands for hydrogen. We can determine how many atoms of each element are present in this formula. Ammonium is composed of one nitrogen atom and four hydrogen atoms. Therefore, the correct answer is 'c. Nitrogen: 1, Hydrogen: 4.'
It is also important to recognize that 'NH4' does not contain nickel (symbol 'Ni'), which helps us eliminate options that mistakenly include nickel. Furthermore, understanding the basics of atomic structure and molecular formulas is essential in chemistry. Atoms have protons and neutrons located within the nucleus and electrons surrounding the nucleus.