Multiple Choice
Which term can best describe the electron shown in the following image?
9. Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table
Electronic Structure
Struggling with Introduction to Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In the context of electronic structure, what does the electron cloud model of the atom describe?
A
All atomic mass and positive charge are spread uniformly throughout the atom with electrons on the surface.
B
Electrons are embedded in a uniform sphere of positive charge (plum pudding model).
C
Electrons occupy regions of probability around the nucleus rather than fixed circular paths.
D
Electrons move in definite circular orbits with quantized radii and energies only (Bohr model).
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the electron cloud model is a way to describe where electrons are likely to be found around the nucleus of an atom.
Recognize that unlike earlier models (such as the Bohr model), the electron cloud model does not depict electrons moving in fixed, circular orbits.
Know that the electron cloud represents regions of space where there is a high probability of finding an electron, based on quantum mechanics.
Realize that these regions are often visualized as fuzzy clouds rather than precise paths, reflecting the uncertainty in an electron's exact position.
Conclude that the electron cloud model emphasizes probability distributions of electrons around the nucleus, rather than fixed orbits or uniform charge distributions.
1:06mWatch next
Master Electronic Structure Concept 1 with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Electronic Structure practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations