To determine the element with 17 electrons, we need to understand the relationship between the number of electrons and the periodic table.
1. Neutral atoms: In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons. This equality ensures the atom has no net charge.
2. Atomic number: The atomic number of an element is equal to the number of protons in its nucleus. Hence, for a neutral atom, the atomic number also represents the number of electrons.
Given that the number of electrons is 17 in a neutral atom, the atomic number of this element must also be 17.
3. Periodic Table Identification:
- Locate the element with atomic number 17.
- Upon consulting the periodic table, we find that the element with atomic number 17 corresponds to Chlorine (Cl).
Thus, the element with 17 electrons is:
d) Cl (Chlorine)
Therefore, the correct answer is option d) Cl.