Question

Which of these statements about atomic structure is correct? Explain what is wrong with the other three statements. A) I think the protons and negative neutrons make up the nucleus and positive electrons go around the outside. B) The electrons are negative and the neutrons are positive; also the neutral protons go around the outside. C) I thought the protons were positive and made the nucleus with the neutrons, while the negative electrons orbited around the outside. D) The protons are positive and make up the nucleus; the electrons and neutrons go around the outside.

Answer 1

D) The protons are positive and make up the nucleus; the electrons and neutrons go around the outside.

Step-by-step explanation:

In an atom:

Protons are positively charged subatomic particles, and they are located in the nucleus at the center of the atom.

Electrons are negatively charged subatomic particles, and they are found in electron orbitals or energy levels outside the nucleus.

Neutrons are neutral subatomic particles, and they are also located in the nucleus.

Statement A is incorrect because it incorrectly states that "positive electrons go around the outside." Electrons are negatively charged, not positive.

Statement B is incorrect because it incorrectly states that "the neutrons are positive." Neutrons are neutral, not positive.

Statement C is incorrect because it incorrectly states that "the neutrons, while the negative electrons orbited around the outside." It confuses the charges of protons and electrons.

In atomic structure, it's essential to correctly identify the charges and locations of the subatomic particles, as described in Statement D.