Question

3 phosphorus atoms are important for your bones and teeth. in its nucleus, each phosphorus atom has 15 protons and 16 neutrons. in order for a phosphorus atom to be neutral, how many electrons must it have? a 1 b 15 c 16 d 31

Explanation:

Step1: Recall neutral atom rule

In a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons.

Step2: Apply to phosphorus atom

Phosphorus has 15 protons. So, electrons = protons = 15.

Answer:

B. 15