How do you find the number of neutrons in an atom?

To find the number of neutrons in an atom, subtract the number of protons in the atom from the atom's mass. These numbers are found on the periodic table of elements.

1. Get a periodic table of elements

   Periodic tables are found online and in chemistry textbooks. They list every known element and provide the number of protons and atomic masses for each element.

2. Find the element's atomic number

   The atomic number is located above the element symbols. This is the number of protons found in one atom of the element.

3. Find the element's atomic mass

   The atomic mass is listed beneath the element symbols. This is the sum of the protons and neutrons found in one atom of the element. It is an average of all possible isotopes, so, round the value to the nearest whole number to find the most common mass.

4. Find the number of neutrons in one atom

   Subtract the atomic number from the atomic mass. The difference is the number of neutrons found in one atom of the element.