A platinum ion contains 117 neutrons.
Understanding Platinum and its Nuclear Composition
The number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus defines its specific isotope and remains unchanged whether the atom is neutral or has formed an ion. The element platinum, identified by its atomic number 78 (meaning it always has 78 protons), typically refers to an isotope containing 117 neutrons. This combination of protons and neutrons determines the atomic mass of the particular platinum isotope.
Key Characteristics of Platinum
Platinum is a highly valued, dense, malleable, and ductile noble metal renowned for its resistance to corrosion and high melting point. Here are some key characteristics:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Atomic Number | 78 |
| Number of Neutrons | 117 |
| Number of Electrons (Neutral Atom) | 78 |
| Melting Point | 1772.0° C |
| Boiling Point | 3827.0° C |
For more detailed information on this remarkable element, you can explore its properties on Wikipedia.
The Nature of Ions
An ion is simply an atom or molecule that carries an electrical charge due to the gain or loss of electrons. When a neutral platinum atom becomes an ion—whether it forms a cation (positively charged by losing electrons) or an anion (negatively charged by gaining electrons)—only the number of electrons orbiting its nucleus changes. The nucleus itself, containing the protons and neutrons, remains untouched. Therefore, a platinum ion, regardless of its charge, will maintain the same number of neutrons as the neutral platinum atom from which it originated, provided it is the same isotope.
