Question detail
If an atom’s mass number is 12, where is this mass primarily located?
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. In the 12 electrons
- B. In the 12 protons
- C. In the 12 neutrons
- D. In the nucleus (protons + neutrons)
Answer
In the nucleus (protons + neutrons)
Explanation
The mass number counts protons and neutrons; these nucleons in the nucleus hold almost all the atom’s mass.
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.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Press Space to flip, arrows to move
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.
0 of 4 attempted