an atomic scientist was studying an atom and through experimentation found that the total negative charge of…

Brief Explanations:

Electrons are negatively - charged particles. If the total negative charge of the area surrounding the nucleus (where electrons are located) is - 9, and each electron has a charge of - 1, then the number of electrons (n) can be found using the formula (Q = n\times(- 1)) (where (Q=-9)). Solving for (n), we get (n=\frac{Q}{-1}=\frac{-9}{-1}=9). Neutrons have no charge, protons have a positive charge, and there is no such thing as "charge - related clouds" in the context of atomic structure.

Answer:

This atom has nine electrons.