If the number of neutrons in an atom is changed, does the atom become a new element? why or why not? a. yes. the number of neutrons determines the identity of an atom b. yes. the number of neutrons determines the number of electrons in an atom, and therefore, the identity of the element. c. no. it is the number of protons, not the number of neutrons, that determines the identity of an atom. d. no. it is the number of electrons, not the number of neutrons that determines the identity of an atom.