Which correctly describes the structure of an atom?
A)There are the same number of protons and neutrons.
B)There are the same number of protons and electrons.
C)There are the same number of neutrons and electrons.
D)The number of protons,neutrons,and electrons never changes.
E)There are never the same number of neutrons and protons.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An atom consists of a nucleus made up of protons and neutrons, and electrons orbit the nucleus. The number of protons in the nucleus determines the atomic number and identifies the element. The number of electrons matches the number of protons, thus balancing the positive charge of the nucleus. Neutrons have a neutral charge, so they do not impact the electric charge or chemical properties of the atom. Therefore, the correct option is B, which states that there are the same number of protons and electrons in an atom.

Which Correctly Describes the Structure of an Atom