An atom is composed of a central core and surrounding subatomic particles. Match each atomic structure component on the left with its defining physical property and role on the right.
- ProtonPositively charged subatomic particle whose total count defines the element's atomic number
- NeutronElectrically neutral subatomic particle that resides in the nucleus and contributes to total mass
- ElectronNegatively charged subatomic particle with very low mass that orbits outside the nucleus
- Atomic nucleusExtremely dense central region of the atom where nearly all atomic mass is concentrated
Answer
Proton matches with the positively charged particle defining atomic number; Neutron matches with the neutral particle in the nucleus contributing to mass; Electron matches with the negatively charged particle orbiting outside the nucleus; Atomic nucleus matches with the dense central core containing nearly all atomic mass.
Each subatomic entity is matched according to its fundamental physical characteristics: protons are positively charged and determine atomic number; neutrons are uncharged nucleons that contribute to mass number; electrons are negative particles that orbit the nucleus; and the nucleus is the dense core where nearly all atomic mass is located.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Subatomic particle properties, charges, and atomic architecture
Estimated Time:45s