…………….. are the subatomic particles that determine which element an atom is.
…………….. are the subatomic particles that determine which element an atom is.
The correct option is B Protons
The explanation for the correct option:
(B)
- Even though an atom is extremely small, you will be surprised to know that within the atom there are three different types of particles, even smaller than the atom. They are called fundamental particles or subatomic particles.
- The number of protons in an atom's nucleus determines what element it is, whereas the number of electrons around the nucleus dictates the type of reactions it will experience.
- So, this is the correct option.
The explanation for the incorrect option:
(A) The mass of an atom is concentrated in a region called the nucleus. Within the nucleus, there are two different kinds of particles-neutrons and protons bound close together. The third kind of particle, called the electron, moves around the nucleus. So, this is not the correct option.
(C) Protons carry a positive charge, whereas electrons carry a negative charge. Neutrons have no charge. Hence the nucleus of an atom is positively charged. So, this is not the correct option.
(D) Ions: A charged atom is known as an ion, there are two kinds of ions. A positively charged ion is called a cation. Metal atoms generally lose electrons and become cations. A negatively charged ion is called an anion. Atoms of non-metals and metalloids generally gain electrons to form anions. So, this is not the correct option.
Conclusion: Thus, option (B) is the correct answer.
Protons
The explanation for the correct option:
(B)
- Even though an atom is extremely small, you will be surprised to know that within the atom there are three different types of particles, even smaller than the atom. They are called fundamental particles or subatomic particles.
- The number of protons in an atom's nucleus determines what element it is, whereas the number of electrons around the nucleus dictates the type of reactions it will experience.
- So, this is the correct option.
The explanation for the incorrect option:
(A) The mass of an atom is concentrated in a region called the nucleus. Within the nucleus, there are two different kinds of particles-neutrons and protons bound close together. The third kind of particle, called the electron, moves around the nucleus. So, this is not the correct option.
(C) Protons carry a positive charge, whereas electrons carry a negative charge. Neutrons have no charge. Hence the nucleus of an atom is positively charged. So, this is not the correct option.
(D) Ions: A charged atom is known as an ion, there are two kinds of ions. A positively charged ion is called a cation. Metal atoms generally lose electrons and become cations. A negatively charged ion is called an anion. Atoms of non-metals and metalloids generally gain electrons to form anions. So, this is not the correct option.
Conclusion: Thus, option (B) is the correct answer.
