An atomic scientist was studying an atom and through experimentation found that the total negative charge of the area surrounding the nucleus is -9. Which statement correctly describes this atom?

Question

This atom has nine clouds.
This atom has nine electrons.
This atom has nine neutrons.
This atom has nine protons.

Answer 1

The statement that correctly describes the atom is:

This atom has nine electrons.

In an atom, the total negative charge is due to the electrons, as they carry a negative charge. If the total negative charge surrounding the nucleus is -9, it indicates the presence of nine electrons, since each electron has a charge of -1. The other options regarding clouds, neutrons, and protons do not directly relate to the negative charge mentioned in the context of electrons.