Multiple Choice
Which element has the greatest number of protons in its nucleus?
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4. Atoms and Elements
Subatomic Particles (Simplified)
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In an atom or ion, which subatomic particle(s) determine the net electric charge?
A
Neutrons only
B
Protons and electrons
C
Electrons and neutrons
D
Protons and neutrons
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that an atom consists of three main subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Understand that protons carry a positive charge (+1), electrons carry a negative charge (-1), and neutrons have no charge (neutral).
The net electric charge of an atom or ion is determined by the balance between the number of protons and electrons because they have opposite charges.
Neutrons do not affect the net charge since they are electrically neutral; they only contribute to the mass of the atom.
Therefore, to find the net charge, subtract the number of electrons from the number of protons: \(\text{Net charge} = \text{Number of protons} - \text{Number of electrons}\).
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