Question

when e is the number of electrons, m is the mass number, n is the number of neutrons, and p is the number of protons, which equation is correct for an atom involved in nuclear fusion? (1 point)
\\( m = p + e \\)
\\( m = n + p \\)
\\( m = e \\)
\\( m = n \\)

Explanation:

The mass number \(m\) of an atom is defined as the sum of the number of protons \(p\) and neutrons \(n\) in the nucleus of an atom. Electrons \(e\) are not part of the mass number calculation as their mass is negligible compared to protons and neutrons.

Answer:

\(m = n + p\) (the second option).