Question

an element has an atomic number of 76. the number of protons and electrons in a neutral atom of the element are multiple choice 152 protons and 76 neutrons. 76 protons and 152 electrons. 76 protons and 76 electrons. 76 protons and 152 neutrons. 0 protons and 76 electrons.

Explanation:

1. Recall the definition: Atomic number ($Z$) is equal to the number of protons in an atom's nucleus. So for atomic number 76, number of protons = 76.
2. In a neutral atom, the number of electrons (negative charge) equals the number of protons (positive charge) to balance the charge. Thus, electrons = protons = 76.
3. Analyze other options:

• First option: Incorrect (mixes protons, neutrons; atomic number ≠ 152).
• Second option: Electrons ≠ 152 (neutral atom has equal protons/electrons).
• Fourth option: Talks about neutrons (question asks for protons/electrons).
• Fifth option: Protons can't be 0 (atomic number is proton count).

Answer:

C. 76 protons and 76 electrons. (assuming the options are labeled A to E with the third option being C; if the original options have different labels, adjust accordingly, but based on the content, the correct option is the one with 76 protons and 76 electrons)