Question

a scientist is studying two isotopes of sodium, labeled a and b. in isotope a, each of the atoms has 11 protons, 12 neutrons, and 11 electrons. what could be the atomic structure of isotope b?
a. 11 protons, 12 neutrons, and 10 electrons
b. 12 protons, 12 neutrons, and 11 electrons

Explanation:

Step1: Recall isotope definition

Isotopes of an element have same number of protons but different number of neutrons. Isotope A of sodium has 11 protons, so isotope B of sodium must also have 11 protons.

Step2: Analyze options

Option A has 11 protons which is correct for a sodium - isotope. Option B has 12 protons which is incorrect for a sodium - isotope as sodium has an atomic number of 11 (number of protons = atomic number).

Answer:

A. 11 protons, 12 neutrons, and 10 electrons