Multiple Choice
Which subatomic particle primarily participates in chemical bonding?
2. Atoms & Elements
Subatomic Particles
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Which subatomic particle has a mass of approximately 1 amu?
A
Proton
B
Neutron
C
Photon
D
Electron
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of atomic mass unit (amu): An atomic mass unit is a standard unit of mass that quantifies mass on an atomic or molecular scale. It is approximately equal to the mass of a proton or a neutron.
Identify the subatomic particles: The main subatomic particles are protons, neutrons, and electrons. Photons are not subatomic particles; they are particles of light.
Compare the masses of these particles: Protons and neutrons both have a mass of approximately 1 amu, while electrons have a much smaller mass, approximately 1/1836 of an amu.
Recognize that photons are massless: Photons do not have mass and are not considered when discussing atomic mass units.
Conclude that both protons and neutrons have a mass of approximately 1 amu, making them the correct answers for this question.
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