Question

hypochlorite is a polyatomic ion with formula clo⁻. it is used to disinfect drinking water and swimming pool water. how many protons and electrons does a clo⁻ ion contain? protons electrons

Explanation:

Step1: Determine protons in Cl and O

The atomic number of Cl is 17 (so 17 protons) and of O is 8 (so 8 protons). In $ClO^-$, total protons = 17+8 = 25.

Step2: Determine electrons in $ClO^-$

In a neutral Cl atom, there are 17 electrons and in a neutral O atom, there are 8 electrons. The ion $ClO^-$ has a - 1 charge, which means it has 1 extra electron. So total electrons = 17 + 8+1 = 26.

Answer:

25
26