Question

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

Explanation:

Step1: Recall isotope notation rules

In isotope notation \(\ce{^A_Z X}\), \(Z\) is the atomic number (number of protons), and for a neutral atom, number of electrons = number of protons.

Step2: Identify \(Z\) for \(\ce{^45_{21} Sc}\)

Here, \(Z = 21\) (the subscript), so number of protons is 21. Since the particle (a neutral atom of Sc) has equal protons and electrons, electrons = 21.

Answer:

21 (corresponding to the option with 21, e.g., if the option is labeled as, say, C. 21, then C. 21)