Problem Description:
The image provided is a diagram of an atom, specifically a helium atom. The task appears to involve understanding the structure of an atom and applying this knowledge to solve a related problem. Since the specific problem isn't explicitly stated in the text, I will infer a common type of question related to atomic structure and solve it step by step.
#### Assumed Problem:
"Determine the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in a neutral helium atom."
---
Solution:
#### Step 1: Understand the Basics of Atomic Structure
-
Protons: Positively charged particles located in the nucleus.
-
Neutrons: Neutral particles (no charge) located in the nucleus.
-
Electrons: Negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus in shells or energy levels.
- In a
neutral atom, the number of protons equals the number of electrons.
#### Step 2: Identify Key Information About Helium
Helium is the second element on the periodic table, with the following properties:
-
Atomic Number: 2
- The atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.
-
Mass Number: Typically 4 for the most common isotope of helium.
- The mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
#### Step 3: Determine the Number of Protons, Neutrons, and Electrons
1.
Number of Protons:
- The atomic number of helium is 2.
- Therefore, a helium atom has
2 protons.
2.
Number of Electrons:
- In a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons.
- Therefore, a neutral helium atom has
2 electrons.
3.
Number of Neutrons:
- The mass number of helium is 4.
- The mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons.
- Using the formula:
\[
\text{Mass Number} = \text{Number of Protons} + \text{Number of Neutrons}
\]
\[
4 = 2 + \text{Number of Neutrons}
\]
\[
\text{Number of Neutrons} = 4 - 2 = 2
\]
#### Step 4: Verify the Answer
- Protons: 2
- Neutrons: 2
- Electrons: 2
- This satisfies the conditions for a neutral helium atom.
---
Final Answer:
\[
\boxed{2 \text{ protons}, 2 \text{ neutrons}, 2 \text{ electrons}}
\]
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of atom diagrams and worksheet.
