If an atom has 18 protons, 16 neutrons, and 22 electrons, what is the atom's electrical charge?

Question

A.
+6
B.
-4
C.
-2
D.
+4

Answer 1

To determine the electrical charge of the atom, we can use the following formula:

\[ \text{Charge} = \text{Number of protons} - \text{Number of electrons} \]

Given that the atom has:

• 18 protons
• 22 electrons

We can calculate the charge as follows:

\[ \text{Charge} = 18 - 22 = -4 \]

Thus, the atom has an electrical charge of -4.

The correct answer is B. -4.