How many protons does the magnesium cation have?

Answer 1

The Periodic Table states that the atomic number of magnesium is 12. A magnesium atom would thus have 12 protons in its nucleus; any atom that has 12 protons must be a magnesium atom. Atomic number = number of protons

Answer 2

Every atom, ion, and isotope of the same element will always have the same number of protons (12 in this case). An atom of magnesium without one or more protons or with more protons is no longer magnesium.

Answer 3

The magnesium cation has 12 protons. Magnesium typically has 12 protons in its nucleus, which gives it a positive charge when it loses electrons to become a cation.