Question

question 17 of 25
which sentence describes all atoms of one element?

a. they have the same number of isotopes.

b. they have the same properties.

c. they have the same number of neutrons.

d. they have the same number of protons.

Explanation:

• Option A: The number of isotopes an element has is not a defining characteristic of all its atoms. Different isotopes exist, but the count of isotopes isn't a property shared by all atoms of an element.
• Option B: While atoms of the same element have similar chemical properties, physical properties (like mass due to isotopes) can vary. So "same properties" is too broad.
• Option C: Atoms of the same element can have different numbers of neutrons (isotopes), so this is incorrect.
• Option D: The number of protons (atomic number) is what defines an element. All atoms of a single element have the same number of protons.

Answer:

D. They have the same number of protons.