Refer to the masses of the subatomic particles in Table 1. Arrange the subatomic particles in increasing mass. Q1. Which subatomic particle is the lightest? Q2. Which subatomic particle is the heaviest? Q3. Which of the subatomic particles have almost the same mass? Q4. Compare the charges of the three particles indicated in Table 1. 2. Take a look again at the table. Q5. Which subatomic particle makes up most of the mass of the atom? Q6. Which particles account for a) the charge of the nucleus and b) the mass of the nucleus?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Based on the information provided in Table 1, here are the answers to your questions, followed by a detailed explanation.
Correct Answers
Arrangement of subatomic particles in increasing mass:
Electron < Proton < Neutron
Q1. The electron is the lightest subatomic particle.
Q2. The neutron is the heaviest subatomic particle.
Q3. The proton and the neutron have almost the same mass.
Q4. The proton has a positive charge (+1), the electron has a negative charge (-1) of equal magnitude, and the neutron has no charge (0).
Q5. The protons and neutrons make up most of the mass of the atom.
Q6. The particles that account for:
a) the charge of the nucleus are the protons.
b) the mass of the nucleus are the protons and neutrons.
Explanation of Atomic Structure and Properties
An atom, the fundamental unit of a chemical element, is composed of three primary subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons. The distinct properties of these particles—namely their mass, charge, and location—determine the characteristics of an atom.
Mass and Location within the Atom
The mass of subatomic particles is a
