One isotope of oxygen is \(^{16}O\) - Edexcel - A-Level Physics - Question 1 - 2023 - Paper 1

To determine the number of neutrons and protons in the isotope (^{16}O):

1. Identify the Mass Number: The mass number of (^{16}O) indicates it has 16 nucleons (protons + neutrons).

2. Determine the Atomic Number: Oxygen has an atomic number of 8, which means it has 8 protons.

3. Calculate the Number of Neutrons: Subtract the number of protons from the mass number: $\text{Number of Neutrons} = \text{Mass Number} - \text{Number of Protons} = 16 - 8 = 8$

4. Find the Correct Option: The correct row that shows 8 neutrons and 8 protons is option C.