Question detail
Which statement best describes the mass distribution in a typical atom?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Atoms and isotopes
Question
- A. Most mass is spread evenly between electrons and nucleus
- B. Most mass is in the electron cloud
- C. Most mass is in the nucleus
- D. Most mass is in the outer energy levels
Answer
The correct answer is C: Most mass is in the nucleus.
Explanation
The correct answer is C: Most mass is in the nucleus. This supports the learning objective "State that nearly all the mass of an atom is concentrated in the nucleus." in The structure of an atom because it uses the correct atomic and nuclear radiation relationship for Atoms and isotopes. The other options are less suitable because they do not match the required The structure of an atom idea: Most mass is spread evenly between electrons and nucleus; Most mass is in the electron cloud; Most mass is in the outer energy levels.
Common mistake
Mass Concentration Misunderstanding
Students often think that the mass of an atom is evenly distributed throughout the atom rather than concentrated in the nucleus.
Emphasize that nearly all the mass of an atom is concentrated in the nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, while electrons have negligible mass.
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