To determine the element based on the given information, we can follow these steps:
Find the atomic number (Z): The atomic number represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. It determines the identity of an element. In this case, the cation has a 4+ charge, which means it has lost 4 electrons compared to its neutral state. Since the cation has 18 electrons, subtracting 4 from 18 gives us 14 electrons. Therefore, the atomic number (Z) is 14.
Identify the element: To find the element with atomic number 14, we consult the periodic table. Element number 14 corresponds to silicon (Si).
Find the atomic mass: The atomic mass is the weighted average of the masses of all the naturally occurring isotopes of an element. The given information does not directly provide the atomic mass, but we can determine it by looking at the number of neutrons.
Calculate the number of protons (p): The number of protons (p) is equal to the atomic number (Z), which we determined earlier. In this case, the number of protons is also 14.
Therefore, based on the given information:
- Element: Silicon (Si)
- Atomic number (Z): 14
- Number of protons (p): 14
To find the atomic mass, we need additional information about the number of neutrons or the specific isotope. If you have the number of neutrons or any other relevant details, I can help you calculate the atomic mass of silicon.