Question

if a calcium atom were to lose electrons and become a cation, it would have _ protons and _ electrons.
answer:

Explanation:

Step1: Find calcium's proton count

Calcium has atomic number 20, so protons = 20.

Step2: Determine neutral electron count

Neutral atoms have equal protons/electrons: electrons = 20.

Step3: Cation electron count (lose 2 e⁻)

Calcium forms +2 cation: $20 - 2 = 18$ electrons.

Answer:

20 protons and 18 electrons