Chapter 2, Problem 2.12QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Total number of neutrons in ${}^{\text{243}}\text{Pu}$ has to be calculated.

Concept introduction:

The total number of protons in an atom is said to be its atomic number.  By using the total number of protons and neutrons all the atoms can be identified.  Atomic number is denoted by “Z”.  Atomic number is a characteristic of each and every atom in an element.

The total number of neutrons and protons of an atom is said to be its mass number.  By using the total number of protons and neutrons all the atoms can be identified.  Mass number is denoted by “A”.

Total number of neutrons present in an atom can be found out of finding the difference between mass number and atomic number.

$\text{mass number (A) = number of protons (Z) + number of neutrons}$