To determine the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in a neutral atom of gold (Au) with an atomic mass of 197, we first need to know the atomic number of gold.
The atomic number of gold is 79. This indicates that a neutral atom of gold has 79 protons. Since it is neutral, it also has 79 electrons.
To find the number of neutrons, we can use the formula:
Neutrons = Atomic Mass – Atomic Number
For gold, this calculation would be:
Neutrons = 197 – 79 = 118
Therefore, a neutral atom of gold (Au) with an atomic mass of 197 has:
- Protons: 79
- Neutrons: 118
- Electrons: 79
This means that in summary, a neutral atom of gold consists of 79 protons, 118 neutrons, and 79 electrons.