An ion has a net charge of 3+. If this ion has 8 protons, how many electrons does it have?

A. 3

B. 5

C. 7

D. 8

E. 11

Answer: B. 5

Explanation: A neutral atom has equal number of electrons and protons.

Whenever a neutral atom loses electron it acquires a positive charge. Thus in order to acquire 3 + charge, it must lose three electrons. Thus the number of protons exceeds the number of electrons.

Thus the number of electrons left will be (8-3) = 5 electrons.

If an atom gains electrons, it acquires a negative charge and the number of electrons exceeds the number of protons.