Question

write the chemical symbols for three different atoms or atomic cations with 4 electrons.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall atomic structure basics

In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the atomic number (Z). For cations, the number of electrons is less than the atomic number based on the charge.

Step2: Identify neutral atom with 4 electrons

The neutral atom with 4 electrons has an atomic number of 4, which is beryllium, symbol Be.

Step3: Identify first cation

A cation with 4 electrons could be formed from boron (B) which has an atomic number of 5. If boron loses 1 electron to form a + 1 cation, it will have 4 electrons. The symbol is B⁺.

Step4: Identify second cation

Carbon (C) has an atomic number of 6. If carbon loses 2 electrons to form a C²⁺ cation, it will have 4 electrons.

Answer:

Be, B⁺, C²⁺