Counting Atoms
To count atoms, we can find the total sum of the subscripts in a chemical compound.
This is the case for most compounds. In some cases, we will have to multiply subscripts when there are elements inside brackets.
Solving the Question
We're given:
Li₂SO₂
In front of lithium (Li), there is a 2.
In front of sulfur (S), there is nothing, which means 1.
In front of oxygen (O), there is a 2.
Add:
2 + 1 + 2 = 5
Therefore, there are 5 atoms in Li₂SO₂.
Answer
5 atoms