The atomic number of an element represents the number of protons in the nucleus of its atom. In this case, the atomic number is 8, so the atom has 8 protons.
The mass number represents the total number of protons and neutrons in the atom. Since the atom is neutral, it means it has an equal number of electrons as protons. Thus, the mass number (17) can be expressed as the sum of protons and neutrons.
To find the number of neutrons, subtract the atomic number (protons) from the mass number:
Number of neutrons = Mass number - Atomic number = 17 - 8 = 9.
Therefore, the neutral atom with an atomic number of 8 and a mass number of 17 has 8 protons, 8 electrons, and 9 neutrons.