Chapter 5, Problem 114A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The number of electrons, protons and neutrons of gadolinium atom having atomic number 64 and mass number 153 needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Number of protons in the nucleus of an atom is equal to the atomic number (Z) while the number of electrons in a neutral atom is equal to the number of protons. The mass number of the atom is equal to the sum of the number of neutrons and protons in the nucleus.

Answer to Problem 114A

There are $64$ electrons, $64$ protons and $89$ neutrons of gadolinium atom having atomic number 64 and mass number 153.

Explanation of Solution

The number of electrons and protons are equal to the atomic number of gadolinium atom. Therefore, there are $64$ electrons and $64$ protons as the atomic number of gadolinium is $64$. To determine the number of neutrons, subtract atomic number from the mass number as:

$\begin{array}{c}\text{Neutrons}=\text{Mass}\text{number}-\text{Atomic}\text{number}\\ =153-64\\ =89\end{array}$

Conclusion

There are $64$ electrons, $64$ protons and $89$ neutrons of gadolinium atom having atomic number 64 and mass number 153.