Lead has an atomic number of 82. Which statement describes all neutral atoms and ions of lead? (1 point)

Question

• Neutral atoms of lead must have 82 electrons. Ions must have 82 electrons, as well.
• Neutral atoms of lead must have 82 protons. Ions must have 82 protons, as well.
• Neutral atoms of lead must have 82 protons, but ions can have more or fewer.
• Neutral atoms of lead must have 82 neutrons, but ions can have more or fewer.

Answer 1

The correct statement is: Neutral atoms of lead must have 82 protons, but ions can have more or fewer.

Explanation:

• An element's atomic number (82 for lead) indicates the number of protons in a neutral atom of that element. Therefore, neutral lead atoms have 82 protons and 82 electrons.
• Ions, however, can have a different number of electrons than protons, which means they can have a different overall charge. Hence, while lead ions will always have 82 protons, they can have more or fewer electrons, resulting in a positive or negative charge.