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Chapter 2: Problem 60

Which particles define what element a particular atom is? A. nucleons B. protons C. neutrons D. electrons

Short Answer

Expert verified
Protons define what element a particular atom is.

Step by step solution

01

Identify the Question

Determine what the question is asking about. It asks which particles define what element a particular atom is.
02

Understand the Options

Review the provided options: nucleons, protons, neutrons, and electrons. Each represents a different type of particle found in an atom.
03

Define Each Option

Define what each particle is: - Nucleons: particles in the nucleus (protons and neutrons)- Protons: positively charged particles in the nucleus- Neutrons: neutral particles in the nucleus- Electrons: negatively charged particles orbiting the nucleus
04

Determine the Defining Particle

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom (atomic number) defines the element, since each element has a unique number of protons.
05

Choose the Correct Option

Based on the definitions and requirements of the question, the correct option is B. Protons.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

protons
Protons are essential subatomic particles found inside an atom's nucleus. They carry a positive charge. Each element is uniquely defined by the number of protons in its nucleus.
This unique number is called the atomic number. For instance, all hydrogen atoms have one proton, whereas all carbon atoms have six protons.
The presence of protons not only determines the identity of the element but also influences the chemical properties and behavior of the atom.
The number of protons, therefore, is fundamental in identifying an element, differentiating it from others.
atomic number
The atomic number of an element is the number of protons in the nucleus of its atoms. This number is always an integer and is unique to each element.
The atomic number serves as a fingerprint of sorts for an element, ensuring that no two elements share the same atomic number.
  • Hydrogen: atomic number 1 = 1 proton
  • Helium: atomic number 2 = 2 protons
  • Lithium: atomic number 3 = 3 protons

Knowing the atomic number helps to understand the element's position in the Periodic Table, its properties, and the types of reactions it can undergo.
elements
Elements are pure substances that consist of only one type of atom. The defining characteristic of each element is the number of protons in its nucleus, also known as the atomic number.
There are over 100 elements, each with unique physical and chemical properties. Elements are categorized in the Periodic Table, which orders them by their atomic number and groups elements with similar properties together.
Some familiar elements include:
  • Oxygen (O) - essential for respiration.
  • Gold (Au) - precious metal.
  • Iron (Fe) - used in construction and manufacturing.
Understanding elements and their properties is fundamental to studying chemistry and the natural world.

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