Huge Misconception: Protons, Electrons, Atoms, and Ions

What characteristic distinguishes an ion from a neutral atom?

• A different number of neutrons compared to protons.

• An unequal number of protons and electrons.

• A larger atomic mass.

• The presence of a covalent bond.

A magnesium ion (Mg²⁺) has 12 protons. How many electrons does it possess?

• 10 electrons

• 12 electrons

• 14 electrons

• 24 electrons

What must be true about the number of protons and electrons in an electrically neutral atom?

• The number of protons must be greater than the number of electrons.

• The number of electrons must be greater than the number of protons.

• The number of protons and electrons must be equal.

• The number of protons and electrons must both be even.

An oxygen atom has 8 protons. If it forms an O²⁻ ion, how many electrons does it have?

• 6 electrons

• 8 electrons

• 10 electrons

• 16 electrons