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Your teacher tells you this is a proper model of a neutral lithium atom. How can you use the image to tell why it is lithium? Select ALL that apply. (2 points) Responses In the model there are three negative electrons surrounding the nucleus. In neutral atoms the numbers of protons and electrons match. In the model there are three negative electrons surrounding the nucleus. In neutral atoms the numbers of protons and electrons match. The model has a mass of seven amu, protons plus neutrons so it must be lithium since no other atoms can have a mass near seven amu. The model has a mass of seven amu, protons plus neutrons so it must be lithium since no other atoms can have a mass near seven amu. The model has four neutrons in the nucleus, neutrons can be used to identify an atom. The model has four neutrons in the nucleus, neutrons can be used to identify an atom. This model has three negative electrons found inside its nucleus so it must be lithium. This model has three negative electrons found inside its nucleus so it must be lithium. The atomic number of lithium is three and there are three positive protons in the nucleus of this model. The atomic number of lithium is three and there are three positive protons in the nucleus of this model.

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To determine why the model represents a neutral lithium atom, you can use the following responses:

  1. In the model there are three negative electrons surrounding the nucleus. In neutral atoms the numbers of protons and electrons match. - This confirms that the model is neutral and suggests an equal number of protons and electrons, consistent with lithium.

  2. The atomic number of lithium is three and there are three positive protons in the nucleus of this model. - This directly identifies the model as lithium based on the number of protons, which defines the element.

The other options provided either have inaccuracies (e.g., mentioning neutrons or stating that electrons are found inside the nucleus) or do not clearly indicate that they are exclusive to lithium. Thus, the first and last responses listed are the most appropriate choices.