Which subatomic particle contributes to the positive charge of an atom?
A.
Proton
B.
Neutron
C.
Electron
D.
Nucleon
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Proton.
Explanation:
Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter and are composed of three main subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons. The atomic structure can be visualized as having a nucleus at the center, surrounded by electrons.
Protons are positively charged particles found within the nucleus of an atom. Each proton carries a positive electric charge equal in magnitude but opposite in sign to the charge of an electron. The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom defines the element and determines its atomic number. For example, an atom with 6 protons is carbon, whereas an atom with 8 protons is oxygen. The positive charge of the protons in the nucleus creates an electrostatic attraction that holds the negatively charged electrons in orbit around the nucleus.
Neutrons are neutral particles, meaning they have no electric charge. They are also located within the nucleus of the atom and contribute to the atomic mass but do not affect the electrical charge of the atom. Neutrons and protons together are referred to as nucleons.
Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus. Their negative charge balances the positive charge of the protons in a neutral atom. However, they do not contribute to the positive charge of the atom; rather, they contribute to its overall charge balance.
Nucleon is a collective term for protons and neutrons. While it refers to the particles within the nucleus, it does not specifically denote a particle with a positive charge.
In summary, protons are the subatomic particles responsible for the positive charge of an atom. They determine the atom’s identity and play a crucial role in maintaining the atomic structure by attracting electrons to the nucleus through electrostatic forces.