Which of the following is the number of protons in a lithium atom?

A. 7

B. 3

C. 12

D. 4

Answer Explanation:

The atomic number of an element represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom of that element.

Since lithium has an atomic number of 3, it has 3 protons in its nucleus.

 

Choice A is not correct because 7 is the mass number of lithium, not the number of protons.

Choice C is not correct because 12 is not the atomic number or mass number of lithium.

Choice D is not correct because 4 is not the atomic number or mass number of lithium.

 

Therefore, the Correct Answer is B.