Question

question 10 (3 points)
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helium atom

what happens to this atom if you remove the proton from the nucleus?
state at least 2 things that may occur.

Explanation:

• Change in Atomic Identity: The number of protons defines an element. Helium has 2 protons. Removing one proton leaves 1 proton, so the atom becomes hydrogen (atomic number = number of protons).
• Charge Imbalance: Initially, the helium atom is neutral (2 protons +2 electrons). After removing a proton (now 1 proton), if the number of electrons remains 2, there is an excess of electrons. The species would be \(H^-\) (hydride ion) as there is 1 proton and 2 electrons.

Answer:

1. The atom changes from helium to hydrogen (as the number of protons determines the element).
2. The atom (now a hydrogen - related species) may become negatively charged (\(H^-\)) if the number of electrons is not adjusted (initially 2 electrons for helium, after removing a proton, with 2 electrons remaining).