Question

The element phosphorous (P) has an atomic number of 15 and an atomic mass of 31. How many neutrons are in an atom of phosphorous (P)?(1 point)
Responses

16
16

15
15

31
31

46

Answer 1

To find the number of neutrons in an atom of phosphorus (P), you can use the formula:

\[
\text{Number of neutrons} = \text{Atomic mass} - \text{Atomic number}
\]

For phosphorus:

- Atomic mass = 31
- Atomic number = 15

Calculating the number of neutrons:

\[
\text{Number of neutrons} = 31 - 15 = 16
\]

So, the correct answer is **16**.