How many protons does aluminum (Al) have? How many neutrons? How many electrons?
The correct answer and explanation is:
Aluminum (Al) has the following subatomic particles:
- Protons: Aluminum has 13 protons. The number of protons is always equal to the atomic number of an element. In the case of aluminum, the atomic number is 13, which means it has 13 protons in its nucleus. This number determines the element’s identity and distinguishes it from other elements in the periodic table.
- Neutrons: The number of neutrons in aluminum can vary depending on the isotope. The most common isotope of aluminum is Al-27, which has 14 neutrons. This is calculated by subtracting the atomic number (13 protons) from the atomic mass number (27). Thus, for the most abundant isotope of aluminum, the neutron count is 14.
- Electrons: In a neutral aluminum atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons to balance the electrical charge. Since aluminum has 13 protons, it also has 13 electrons. Electrons orbit the nucleus in electron shells and carry a negative charge. The number of electrons dictates the chemical behavior of the atom.
Explanation:
The atomic number, which is 13 for aluminum, tells us the number of protons in the nucleus. This is crucial because it defines the element. The number of neutrons can differ in isotopes of the same element, as seen with aluminum’s isotopes. The most stable and naturally occurring isotope, Al-27, contains 14 neutrons. In a neutral atom, the number of electrons will equal the number of protons, ensuring there is no net charge. Electrons play an important role in the chemical properties of an element, particularly in bonding and reactions. The structure of an atom, with protons in the nucleus, neutrons adding mass, and electrons surrounding the nucleus, is essential in determining how an element interacts with others.