Q. 4.26 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

Identify the type of subatomic particles described by each of the following: 

a. atomic number 

b. mass number 

c. mass number $-$ atomic number

d. mass number $+$ atomic number 

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

a) Protons.

b) Protons and neutrons.

c) Neutrons.

d) Protons, neutrons and electrons.

Part a: Step 1: Given Information

We need to identify the type of subatomic particles described by atomic number. 

Part a: Step 2: Explanation.

As we know, the atomic number is calculated by the total number of protons. So, the proton is the subatomic particle described by the atomic number. 

Part b: Step 1: Given Information

We need to identify the type of subatomic particles described by the mass number. 

Part b: Step 2: Explanation.

As we know, the mass number is calculated by the addition of protons and neutrons. So, the protons and the neutrons are the subatomic particles described by the mass number. 

Part c: Step 1: Given Information

We need to identify the type of subatomic particles described by the mass number $-$ atomic number.

Part c: Step 2: Explanation.

As we know, mass number $-$ atomic number gives the number of neutrons present in an atom. So, the neutron is the subatomic particle described by the atomic number. 

Part d: Step 1: Given Information

We need to identify the type of subatomic particles described by the mass number $+$ atomic number.

Part d: Step 2: Explanation.

 The neutron, the proton, and the electron is the subatomic particle described by the mass number $+$ atomic number.