How do scientists determine the number of neutrons in an isotope of an atom?

Question

Responses

They divide the atomic mass by two.

They divide the atomic mass by two.

They find the number of protons.

They find the number of protons.

They subtract the atomic number from the atomic mass.

They subtract the atomic number from the atomic mass.

They add the number of electrons and protons.

Answer 1

To determine the number of neutrons in an isotope of an atom, scientists typically follow this process:

1. Find the atomic mass of the isotope, which is usually a whole number representing the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
2. Obtain the atomic number, which is the number of protons in the atom (this is unique to each element).
3. Subtract the atomic number from the atomic mass to find the number of neutrons.

So, the correct response is:

They subtract the atomic number from the atomic mass.