Protons & Electrons in Ions

Sample Problem #2

More of this Feature • Sample Problem #1 • Sample Problem #2    Join the Discussion Looking for personal help? Visit the chemistry forum. Dr. Helmenstine     Related Resources • All Chemistry Problems • Chemistry Homework Help • Periodic Table • Chemistry Glossary • Molecular Structures • Chemistry 'How-To' Collection    From Other Guides • Homework Help/ Study Tips • Astronomy • Biology • Mathematics • Physics

Problem

Give the symbol of an ion which has 10 e^- and 7 p⁺.

Solution

The notation e^- refers to electrons; p⁺ refers to protons. Since the number of protons is an element's atomic number, use the Periodic Table to find the element with an atomic number of 7. This element is nitrogen, which has the symbol N. The problem states that there are more electrons than protons, so we know the ion has a negative net charge. Determine the net charge by looking at the difference in the number of protons and electrons: 10 - 7 = 3 more electrons than protons, or a 3^- charge.

Answer

N^3-

Recent Chemistry Articles

Previous page > Sample Problem #1 > Page 1, 2

Subscribe to the Newsletter
Name	Email