Multiple Choice
In the modern quantum mechanical model of the atom, electrons are best described as which of the following?
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9. Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table
Electronic Structure: Orbitals
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In the context of atomic orbitals, what is meant by the term electron cloud?
A
A region around the nucleus representing the probability distribution of where an electron is likely to be found in an orbital
B
A continuous stream of electrons emitted from the nucleus during radioactive decay
C
A fixed circular path around the nucleus where an electron travels at a constant speed
D
A cluster of protons and neutrons that determines the atom’s mass number
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the term 'electron cloud' relates to the behavior and position of electrons around the nucleus of an atom.
Recall that electrons do not travel in fixed paths like planets around the sun; instead, their exact position cannot be pinpointed at any moment.
Recognize that the 'electron cloud' is a model representing the areas around the nucleus where electrons are most likely to be found, based on probability.
This model uses the concept of orbitals, which are regions in space where the probability of finding an electron is high, rather than fixed orbits.
Therefore, the electron cloud is best described as a region around the nucleus representing the probability distribution of where an electron is likely to be found in an orbital.
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