JAMB Chemistry 1978 Question 41

Question 41

Atomic Structure

Five atoms T, W, X, Y, Z, consist of the following particles:
Proton: T 13, W 16, X 17, Y 19, Z 20
Electron: T 13, W 16, X 17, Y 19, Z 20
Neutron: T 14, W 16, X 35, Y 20, Z 20
Which of the five atoms can be described by the following properties: Relative atomic mass is greater than 30 but less than 40, it has odd atomic number and forms a unipositive ion in solution?

  1. A.T
  2. B.W
  3. C.X
  4. D.Y
  5. E.Z.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (Y)

Explanation

Y has 19 protons (odd atomic number) and mass number 19 + 20 = 39, between 30 and 40. With electrons 2,8,8,1 it is potassium, which forms K+.