Step 1: Calculate the current.
The current due to ions is given by:
\[
I_{\text{ions}} = n \times q \times v
\]
where,
\( n = 2.9 \times 10^{18} \, \text{ions/sec} \),
\( q = 1.6 \times 10^{-19} \, \text{C} \).
Hence:
\[
I_{\text{ions}} = 2.9 \times 10^{18} \times 1.6 \times 10^{-19} = 0.464 \, \text{A}
\]
Similarly, the current due to electrons:
\[
I_{\text{electrons}} = 1.2 \times 10^{18} \times 1.6 \times 10^{-19} = 0.192 \, \text{A}
\]
Since electrons move to the left, their current will be considered negative. Adding the ion and electron currents:
\[
I = I_{\text{ions}} - I_{\text{electrons}} = 0.464 - 0.192 = 0.66 \, \text{A}
\]
Thus, the current is \( 0.66 \, \text{A} \) towards the right.
Step 2: Conclusion.
The current in the discharge tube is \( 0.66 \, \text{A} \), towards the right, which is option (2).