What is how to find number of neutrons?

Here's how to find the number of neutrons in an atom:

To determine the number of neutrons in an atom, you need to know two things: the atom's mass number (also known as atomic mass number) and its atomic number.

• Mass Number (A): This is the total number of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. It is a whole number and is usually found near the element symbol in the periodic table or is given explicitly.

• Atomic Number (Z): This is the number of protons in an atom's nucleus. This number defines the element. Every element has a unique atomic number. The atomic number is typically found above the element symbol in the periodic table.

The number of neutrons (N) can be calculated using the following formula:

N = A - Z

Where:

• N = Number of neutrons
• A = Mass number
• Z = Atomic number

Example:

Consider Carbon-14 (¹⁴C).

• Its mass number (A) is 14.
• Its atomic number (Z) is 6 (carbon always has 6 protons).

Therefore, the number of neutrons (N) in Carbon-14 is:

N = 14 - 6 = 8

So, Carbon-14 has 8 neutrons.