Question

how many atoms of each element are in the chemical formula $nh_4no_3$?
1 nitrogen, 1 hydrogen, and 3 oxygen
1 nitrogen, 4 hydrogen, and 3 oxygen
2 nitrogen, 4 hydrogen, and 3 oxygen
5 nitrogen, 1 hydrogen, and 1 oxygen

Explanation:

Step1: Count nitrogen atoms

In $\text{NH}_4\text{NO}_3$, there are 2 N atoms (1 from $\text{NH}_4$ and 1 from $\text{NO}_3$).

Step2: Count hydrogen atoms

The subscript 4 after H means 4 H atoms.

Step3: Count oxygen atoms

The subscript 3 after O means 3 O atoms.

Answer:

2 nitrogen, 4 hydrogen, and 3 oxygen