Question

using the data above, or by adding/subtracting the p
if you change the number of protons...
mass #
stays constant
changes
charge
stays constant
changes
atom name (identity)
stays constant
changes
? if you change the number of neutrons...
mass #
stays constant
changes
charge
stays constant
changes
atom name (identity)
stays constant
changes

Explanation:

Step1: Recall atomic - structure concepts

The mass number of an atom is the sum of protons and neutrons ($Mass\ number = Protons+Neutrons$). The charge of an atom is determined by the number of protons (positive charge) and electrons (negative charge, usually equal to protons in a neutral atom). The identity of an atom is determined by the number of protons (atomic number).

Step2: Analyze changing the number of protons

If the number of protons changes:

• The mass number changes because the sum of protons and neutrons changes.
• The charge changes because the number of positive - charged particles (protons) changes.
• The atom name (identity) changes because the atomic number (number of protons) changes.

Step3: Analyze changing the number of neutrons

If the number of neutrons changes:

• The mass number changes since it is the sum of protons and neutrons.
• The charge stays the same because neutrons are neutral particles.
• The atom name (identity) stays the same because the number of protons (which defines the element) is unchanged.

Answer:

If you change the number of protons:

• Mass #: Changes
• Charge: Changes
• Atom Name (Identity): Changes

If you change the number of neutrons:

• Mass #: Changes
• Charge: Stays Constant
• Atom Name (Identity): Stays Constant