To find the number of neutrons in an atom of phosphorus (P), you can use the following formula:
Number of neutrons = Atomic mass - Atomic number
Given:
- Atomic mass of phosphorus = 31
- Atomic number of phosphorus = 15
Now, substituting the values:
Number of neutrons = 31 - 15 = 16
Therefore, an atom of phosphorus has 16 neutrons.