In order to determine how many electrons are in a neutral atom of sodium, we need to consider the atomic number of sodium. The atomic number represents the number of protons in an atom, and in a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons.
1. Look up the atomic number of sodium. The atomic number of sodium (Na) is 11.
2. In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the atomic number because the number of positive charges (protons) must equal the number of negative charges (electrons) to balance out and maintain neutrality.
Therefore, a neutral atom of sodium has:
- 11 protons
- 11 electrons
Thus, the number of electrons in a neutral atom of sodium is 11.
The correct answer is:
O c. 11
