Chapter 4, Problem 45A

What is the charge of the nucleus of element 89?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Charge of the nucleus of element 89 should be determined.

Concept introduction: Atom is the smallest particle in the element that can neither be created nor be destroyed. It is composed of three subatomic particles, protons, neutrons and electrons.

Answer to Problem 45A

The charge of the nucleus of element 89 is 89+ due to the presence of 89 positively charged protons.

Explanation of Solution

A charge is the physical property of any matter due to which it experiences a force acting on it when placed in an electromagnetic field. There are positive charges and negative charges.

An atom contains three subatomic particles. Among them, two particles contain charge while the other is neutral.

Electron is a negatively charged subatomic particle that surrounds the nucleus.

Protons are positively charged subatomic particles present inside the nucleus.

Neutrons are zero charged subatomic particles present inside the nucleus along with protons.

So, the charge of the nucleus of an element with atomic number 89 is 89+ because the number of protons are equal to the atomic number and proton is a positively charged subatomic particle.

Conclusion

Hence, the nucleus of an element 89 is 89+.