Question detail
What is the structure of an atom?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Atomic structure
Question
- A. A nucleus containing protons and neutrons surrounded by electrons
- B. Electrons orbiting around a solid nucleus
- C. Protons and neutrons floating freely in space
- D. A cloud of electrons surrounding a dense core
Answer
A nucleus containing protons and neutrons surrounded by electrons
Explanation
This option accurately describes the structure of an atom, where the nucleus is composed of protons and neutrons, and electrons are located in orbitals around the nucleus.
Common mistake
Confusing Atoms and Ions
Students often describe an atom as having a positive charge because it contains protons, forgetting that the overall charge depends on the balance with electrons.
Remember that an atom is neutral when it has equal numbers of protons and electrons. If it has more protons than electrons, it becomes a positively charged ion. For example, a sodium atom (Na) has 11 protons and 11 electrons, making it neutral, but if it loses one electron, it becomes Na⁺, a positively charged ion.
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