Which element has the same number of protons and neutrons?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is Helium (He). Helium has an atomic number of 2, meaning it has 2 protons. It also has 2 neutrons, which gives it a total mass number of 4. Therefore, Helium is an example of an element with an equal number of protons and neutrons. Choice A (Carbon) has 6 protons and usually has more neutrons than protons. Choice B (Oxygen) has 8 protons and 8 neutrons, so the numbers are not equal. Choice C (Lithium) has 3 protons and usually has more neutrons than protons, so it does not fit the criteria of having the same number of protons and neutrons.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Noble gas elements are generally unreactive because they have already achieved stable electron configurations by having a full outer electron shell. This full shell makes them very stable and unlikely to gain, lose, or share electrons with other elements. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because noble gases are not unreactive due to being too large to form bonds easily (A), lacking valence electrons in their outermost shell (B), or having strong bonds within their own molecules (C).

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Elements within the same group share similar electron configurations in their outermost shells, resulting in comparable chemical properties. Helium and Neon both belong to Group 18 (Noble Gases), explaining their similarities. Boron, Carbon, and Oxygen are not in the same group as Helium on the periodic table. Boron is in Group 13, Carbon is in Group 14, and Oxygen is in Group 16, which are different from Helium's Group 18.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Silicon is the correct answer. Silicon is widely used in semiconductors for electronic applications because of its unique properties that allow it to be manipulated to conduct or not conduct electricity effectively. Germanium is also used in semiconductors but to a lesser extent compared to silicon. Gallium and arsenic are not as commonly used in semiconductors like computer chips and solar panels, making them incorrect choices for this question.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Phosphorus is the correct answer. It is used in fertilizers due to its essential role in plant cell division and growth. Phosphorus is a key component of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, which are essential for cell division and growth in plants. Potassium (Choice A) is important for overall plant health and functions like enzyme activation, but it is not specifically known for its role in cell division and growth. Calcium (Choice C) is crucial for cell wall structure and stability but not primarily for cell division. Magnesium (Choice D) is essential for chlorophyll production and photosynthesis, but it is not directly linked to plant cell division and growth.