How many neutrons are contained in an atom of the uranium isotope represented by (238/92) U?

How many neutrons are contained in an atom of the uranium isotope represented by (238/92) U?

• A. 146
• B. 92
• C. 238
• D. 146.5

Answer: (A)

To determine the number of neutrons in an atom of a given isotope, you can use the following formula: Number of neutrons = Mass number - Atomic number. In the case of the uranium isotope represented as (238/92) U, the mass number is 238 and the atomic number is 92. The atomic number represents the number of protons in the atom, which for uranium is 92. Using the formula: Number of neutrons = 238 - 92 = 146. Thus, this isotope of uranium contains 146 neutrons. Understanding the roles of protons and neutrons within an atom is crucial. Protons define the element itself, while neutrons influence the isotope's mass and stability. This knowledge is fundamental in various fields of science, including nuclear physics and chemistry.

To determine the number of neutrons in an atom of a given isotope, you can use the following formula:

Number of neutrons = Mass number - Atomic number.

In the case of the uranium isotope represented as (238/92) U, the mass number is 238 and the atomic number is 92. The atomic number represents the number of protons in the atom, which for uranium is 92.

Using the formula:

Number of neutrons = 238 - 92 = 146.

Thus, this isotope of uranium contains 146 neutrons. Understanding the roles of protons and neutrons within an atom is crucial. Protons define the element itself, while neutrons influence the isotope's mass and stability. This knowledge is fundamental in various fields of science, including nuclear physics and chemistry.