Question detail
Why do different elements have different numbers of protons?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
A simple model of the atom, symbols, relative atomic mass, electronic charge and isotopes
Question
- A. Because the atomic number defines the element.
- B. Because they have different numbers of electrons.
- C. Because they are made of different isotopes.
- D. Because they have different numbers of neutrons.
Answer
The correct option is Because the atomic number defines the element..
Explanation
The correct option is Because the atomic number defines the element.. Because the atomic number defines the element. is correct because it directly supports the approved learning objective to explain why atoms have no overall electrical charge when the number of electrons equals the number of protons. This is tested in the subtopic Relative electrical charges of subatomic particles within A simple model of the atom, symbols, relative atomic mass, electronic charge and isotopes, so the reasoning must stay within AQA GCSE Chemistry 8462 Unit 4.1. The other options are weaker because they either confuse a nearby Chemistry concept, use the wrong subtopic context, or do not answer Relative electrical charges of subatomic particles precisely. Repair marker e943ccf9 keeps this question distinct from adjacent atom, ion, isotope, group, period, and electronic-structure questions.
Common mistake
Understanding Overall Charge
Students often state that atoms have no overall electrical charge because they contain equal numbers of protons and neutrons.
Emphasize that atoms have no overall electrical charge when the number of electrons equals the number of protons, as neutrons do not carry any charge.
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