Question

consider the isotope notation shown.
$\ce{^{45}_{21}sc}$
how many neutrons are in the
particle?
21
24
19
45

Explanation:

Step1: Recall neutron calculation formula

The number of neutrons ($n$) in an isotope is calculated by the formula $n = A - Z$, where $A$ is the mass number (top number in isotope notation) and $Z$ is the atomic number (bottom number in isotope notation).

Step2: Identify $A$ and $Z$ for $_{21}^{45}\text{Sc}$

For $_{21}^{45}\text{Sc}$, the mass number $A = 45$ and the atomic number $Z = 21$.

Step3: Calculate number of neutrons

Substitute $A = 45$ and $Z = 21$ into the formula: $n = 45 - 21 = 24$.

Answer:

24 (corresponding to the option with 24, e.g., if the option is labeled as B. 24, then B. 24)