Answer
a. The element with 20 protons is calcium (Ca). Calcium has an atomic number of 20, which means it has 20 protons in its nucleus.
b. Calcium (Ca) has two valence electrons. Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom. In the case of calcium, the electron configuration is 2-8-8-2, with the outermost energy level containing 2 electrons.
c. Calcium (Ca) is a versatile element that can form various minerals. One common mineral that calcium can form is calcite (CaCO₃), which is a carbonate mineral. Calcite is a major constituent of sedimentary rocks like limestone and marble and is also found in biological materials such as shells, coral, and pearls. Calcium can also be found in other minerals such as gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) and fluorite (CaF₂) depending on the specific geological conditions and chemical interactions.
Work Step by Step
a. The element with 20 protons is calcium (Ca). Calcium has an atomic number of 20, which means it has 20 protons in its nucleus.
b. Calcium (Ca) has two valence electrons. Valence electrons are the electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom. In the case of calcium, the electron configuration is 2-8-8-2, with the outermost energy level containing 2 electrons.
c. Calcium (Ca) is a versatile element that can form various minerals. One common mineral that calcium can form is calcite (CaCO₃), which is a carbonate mineral. Calcite is a major constituent of sedimentary rocks like limestone and marble and is also found in biological materials such as shells, coral, and pearls. Calcium can also be found in other minerals such as gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) and fluorite (CaF₂) depending on the specific geological conditions and chemical interactions.
