An atom of nitrogen contains 7 electrons.
In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons. This is because the positive charge of the protons in the nucleus is balanced by the negative charge of the electrons orbiting the nucleus, resulting in an overall neutral atom.
Understanding Nitrogen's Atomic Structure
Nitrogen is the seventh element on the periodic table, meaning its atomic number is 7. The atomic number directly corresponds to the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom of that element. Since a neutral nitrogen atom must have an equal number of positive and negative charges to maintain its neutrality, it also contains 7 electrons.
Here's a breakdown of the subatomic particles in a typical nitrogen atom:
| Particle | Number in Nitrogen Atom | Charge | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protons | 7 | Positive | Nucleus |
| Electrons | 7 | Negative | Electron Cloud |
| Neutrons | 7 | Neutral | Nucleus |
This balance of 7 protons and 7 electrons ensures the atom remains electrically neutral. While the number of neutrons can vary in different isotopes of an element, the number of protons and electrons (in a neutral atom) remains constant for a specific element.
To learn more about the structure of atoms and the elements, you can explore resources on atomic structure.
