To determine which element would have properties most similar to lithium, we should focus on the number of protons (which defines the element) and the general electron configuration, rather than just the number of neutrons.
Lithium (Li) has 3 protons and is in Group 1 of the periodic table, which means it shares similar properties with other alkali metals.
Examining the options:
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An element with 10 protons, 12 neutrons, and 10 electrons. - This corresponds to neon (Ne), which is a noble gas and has very different properties from lithium.
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An element with 12 protons, 12 neutrons, and 12 electrons. - This corresponds to magnesium (Mg), which is an alkaline earth metal and is also not similar to lithium.
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An element with 4 protons, 4 neutrons, and 3 electrons. - This corresponds to beryllium (Be). Though it's close on the periodic table, it is in Group 2 and will not share the same properties as lithium.
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An element with 11 protons, 11 neutrons, and 11 electrons. - This corresponds to sodium (Na), which is an alkali metal like lithium and would exhibit similar properties.
The most similar element to lithium, therefore, is:
An element with 11 protons, 11 neutrons, and 11 electrons. (sodium)