Adding or removing protons from an atom does what to the atom

Question

Physics

Ann Simpson

7 May, 19:18

Adding or removing protons from an atom does what to the atom

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Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Nathaniel Knox · Answer 1

Changes the element of the atom.

Explanation:

The elements are classified by the number of protons they have in their nucleus, so if the number of protons is changed (added or removed), that atom will become one of a different element.

For example, hydrogen has only 1 proton in its nucleus, and helium has 2. So if a proton is added to a hydrogen atom, it becomes a helium atom, and consequently its atomic number, wich is determided by the protons in an element, will also change.