Question Detail

CHM 101 Quantum Theory and Atomic Structure Objective Question

Question

In nuclear symbol notation, what does the superscript represent?
Options
A The atomic number
B The number of electrons
C The mass number
Correct Answer
D The charge of the ion
Correct Answer

Option C is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

In nuclear symbol notation, the superscript (top number) represents the mass number, which is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. For example, in ²³⁵U, 235 is the mass number.

Hint

The larger number in nuclear notation is typically the mass number.

Question Info