Atoms are composed of a central nucleus which is surrounded by orbiting
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
Atoms are composed of a central nucleus, which is surrounded by orbiting electrons.
Explanation
At the core of an atom lies the nucleus, a dense region that contains protons and neutrons. Protons are positively charged particles, while neutrons carry no charge (they are neutral). The number of protons in the nucleus defines the atomic number of an element, which determines the element’s identity and its position on the periodic table. For example, hydrogen has one proton, while carbon has six.
The nucleus is held together by the strong nuclear force, which is one of the four fundamental forces of nature. This force acts over very short distances, effectively binding protons and neutrons together despite the repulsive electromagnetic force that would otherwise push positively charged protons apart.
Surrounding the nucleus are electrons, which are negatively charged particles. Electrons occupy regions of space called orbitals, which can be thought of as “clouds” where there is a high probability of finding an electron. These orbitals exist at various energy levels, with the electrons in the lowest energy levels being closest to the nucleus. The arrangement of electrons in these orbitals is critical as it determines how an atom interacts with others, influencing its chemical behavior.
Electrons are held in their orbitals by the electromagnetic force, which attracts them to the positively charged nucleus. However, they also possess kinetic energy, causing them to move rapidly and preventing them from spiraling into the nucleus. The balance between these forces leads to a stable atomic structure.
In summary, atoms consist of a nucleus made of protons and neutrons, surrounded by a cloud of orbiting electrons. This structure is fundamental to understanding chemical bonding and the behavior of matter at the atomic level, which underpins all chemical reactions and interactions.