S8P1e. Exploring Atomic Structures and Patterns

Which subatomic particle determines the atomic number of an element?

• Neutron

• Proton

• Electron

• Nucleus

Answer explanation

The atomic number of an element is determined by the number of protons in its nucleus. Each element has a unique number of protons, which defines its identity and position in the periodic table.

What is the charge of a neutron?

• Positive

• Negative

• Neutral

• Double positive

Answer explanation

A neutron has no electric charge, making it neutral. This distinguishes it from protons, which are positively charged, and electrons, which are negatively charged.

Which of the following best describes the location of electrons in an atom?

• In the nucleus

• Orbiting around the nucleus

• Mixed with protons

• Attached to neutrons

Answer explanation

Electrons are best described as orbiting around the nucleus of an atom, similar to how planets orbit the sun. They are not located in the nucleus, mixed with protons, or attached to neutrons.

If an atom has 6 protons, 6 neutrons, and 6 electrons, what is its atomic number?

• 6

• 12

• 18

• 3

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-1

Which element is found in Group 1 and Period 2 of the periodic table?

• Lithium

• Sodium

• Hydrogen

• Potassium

What do the rows (periods) in the periodic table represent?

• Number of protons

• Number of electron shells

• Number of neutrons

• Number of valence electrons

Answer explanation

The rows in the periodic table, known as periods, represent the number of electron shells an atom has. As you move down the table, each period indicates an increase in the number of these shells.

How are elements arranged in the modern periodic table?

• By increasing atomic mass

• By increasing atomic number

• By alphabetical order

• By the number of neutrons

Answer explanation

Elements in the modern periodic table are arranged by increasing atomic number, which reflects the number of protons in an atom's nucleus. This arrangement helps to organize elements based on their chemical properties.

What is the maximum number of electrons that can be found in the first energy level (shell) of an atom?

• 1

• 2

• 4

• 8

Which of the following elements is a noble gas?

• Oxygen

• Neon

• Nitrogen

• Carbon

Answer explanation

Neon is a noble gas, characterized by its lack of reactivity due to a full valence shell. In contrast, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon are reactive nonmetals.

What is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom called?

• Atomic number

• Mass number

• Atomic mass

• Electron number

Answer explanation

The total number of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus is called the mass number. The atomic number refers only to protons, while atomic mass considers isotopes and electron interactions. Therefore, the correct answer is mass number.