The ability of an atom to combine with other atoms is determined by the atom's

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The number and distribution of electrons determine an atom's ability to combine with other atoms. Electrons are involved in chemical reactions and bonding between atoms, while the nucleus (composed of protons and neutrons) plays a role in determining the identity of the atom but not necessarily its ability to combine with others. Atomic weight and mass number are related to an atom's identity and are not directly linked to its reactivity. Isomers refer to different forms of the same molecule, so they are also not directly related to an atom's ability to combine with other atoms.

The Ability of an Atom to Combine with Other Atoms