Multiple Choice
In simplified relative-mass terms, what is the relative mass of an electron compared to a proton (proton )?
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4. Atoms and Elements
Subatomic Particles (Simplified)
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In simplified terms, what is the relative mass of an electron compared to a proton?
A
Approximately (no mass at all)
B
Approximately of a proton’s mass
C
Approximately (about twice a proton’s mass)
D
Approximately (about the same as a proton)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the problem is asking for the relative mass of an electron compared to a proton, which means how the mass of an electron compares as a fraction or multiple of the proton's mass.
Recall that the proton is much heavier than the electron. The mass of a proton is approximately 1 atomic mass unit (amu), while the electron's mass is much smaller.
Express the relative mass as a ratio: \$\frac{\text{mass of electron}}{\text{mass of proton}}\$.
Use the known approximate value that the electron's mass is about 1/1836 of the proton's mass, so the ratio is \$\frac{1}{1836}\$.
Interpret this ratio to understand that the electron's mass is very small compared to the proton, but not zero, and certainly not equal to or greater than the proton's mass.
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