How many protons, neutrons and electrons are there in the following lead ion 58 26 3 fe?
A) Protons: 26, Neutrons: 58, Electrons: 3
B) Protons: 58, Neutrons: 26, Electrons: 3
C) Protons: 26, Neutrons: 32, Electrons: 26
D) Protons: 32, Neutrons: 26, Electrons: 58
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To determine the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in the ion represented by the notation “58 26 3 Fe,” we first need to clarify the notation, which is somewhat confusing. It appears to be a misinterpretation or misrepresentation of the isotopes of iron (Fe). Let’s break down the notation:
- Understanding Isotopes:
- The number before the element symbol (in this case, 58) usually indicates the mass number (the total number of protons and neutrons).
- The number below the element symbol (in this case, 26) indicates the atomic number (the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom).
- If this is an ion, the charge would typically follow the elemental symbol.
- Identifying the Element:
- The atomic number 26 corresponds to iron (Fe). Therefore, the element in question is iron (Fe).
- Calculating Protons, Neutrons, and Electrons:
- Protons: Since the atomic number is 26, the number of protons in the iron atom is 26.
- Neutrons: To find the number of neutrons, we use the mass number (58). The mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons:
[
\text{Neutrons} = \text{Mass number} – \text{Protons} = 58 – 26 = 32
] - Electrons: If the ion has a charge of +3 (indicated by the “3” following the element), it means that the atom has lost three electrons. In a neutral iron atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons, which is 26. Thus, for a +3 charge:
[
\text{Electrons} = \text{Protons} – \text{Charge} = 26 – 3 = 23
]
- Summary:
- For the ion ( \text{Fe}^{3+} ):
- Protons: 26
- Neutrons: 32
- Electrons: 23
Given the original options, it appears that none of them correctly represent the composition of the ( \text{Fe}^{3+} ) ion. Therefore, based on the calculations above, the correct representation is:
- Protons: 26, Neutrons: 32, Electrons: 23.
In conclusion, for the ion ( \text{Fe}^{3+} ) with a mass number of 58, there are 26 protons, 32 neutrons, and 23 electrons. This calculation illustrates how to interpret atomic notation and derive the composition of an ion accurately.