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Multiple Choice
Which subatomic particles each have a mass of approximately 1 u?
A
Neutrons and electrons
B
Electrons and protons
C
Protons and neutrons
D
Protons and positrons
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of atomic mass unit (u): An atomic mass unit is defined as one twelfth of the mass of a carbon-12 atom, and it is approximately equal to the mass of a proton or a neutron.
Identify the subatomic particles: Atoms are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons and neutrons are located in the nucleus, while electrons orbit the nucleus.
Compare the masses of subatomic particles: Protons and neutrons each have a mass of approximately 1 atomic mass unit (u), whereas electrons have a much smaller mass, approximately 1/1836 of a proton.
Evaluate the given options: Analyze each pair of subatomic particles in the options to determine which pair has particles with masses close to 1 u.
Conclude with the correct pair: Based on the mass comparison, protons and neutrons are the subatomic particles that each have a mass of approximately 1 u.