When an atom gains an electron what happens to its atomic mass and number?

Question

The question states specifically the "nucleus"...is that even possible?

Answer 1

If an electron is forced into the nucleus (a process called "Electron Capture"), it will combine with a proton and convert it into a neutron.

Thus, the process of electron capture reduces the atomic number by one, while leaving the atomic mass unchanged.

So, for example:

Nitrogen-13 (At. # - 7, At. mass 13) undergoes electron capture to become Carbon-13 (at. # 6, At. Mass 13).

If the atom merely gains an electron (NOT in the nucleus), then it become an ion with a -1 charge.

Hope that helps.

Answer 2

The atomic number remains the same because it is based on the number of protons in the nucleus and not the electrons. The atomic mass increases by only a tiny amount, because electrons are far lighter than protons or neutrons in the nucleus. Chemically, the atoms aquires a negative charge. This is how most halogens like chlorine and iodine form ions.

Uranium and Plutonium are split in nucleur reactors by the collision of neutrons. If the velocity is right, a neutron can cause the nucleus of the atom to decompose, releasing enormous amounts of energy. Electrons can be made to collide with electrons surrounding the nucleus. The collision produces electromagnetic radiation. An X-ray machine can be made with an ordinary radio tube if the voltage is increased to around 100,000 volts.

Answer 3

As far as I know it's atomic mass/number does not change as the atomic mass is dependant on the number of protons/netrons in it's nucleus. It chemical properties on the other hand, i.e. how it reacts with other atoms will change because the extra electron will now either be more easily available or more difficult to obtain when involved in any chemical reactions.

Answer 4

there will be no change in the mass of the atom bnut there is a change in its atomic number since the the atomic number corresponds to the number of electron, then the atomic number increases

Answer 5

6, 0 the same, -2 electron

Answer 6

Nothing