Multiple Choice
Which subatomic particle primarily participates in chemical bonding?
2. Atoms & Elements
Subatomic Particles
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Which subatomic particle is the smallest in terms of mass?
A
Electron
B
Proton
C
Alpha particle
D
Neutron
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the basic properties of subatomic particles: Electrons, protons, neutrons, and alpha particles are all subatomic particles, but they differ in mass and charge.
Recall the mass of each particle: Electrons have a mass of approximately \(9.109 \times 10^{-31}\) kg, protons have a mass of approximately \(1.673 \times 10^{-27}\) kg, neutrons have a mass of approximately \(1.675 \times 10^{-27}\) kg, and alpha particles, which consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, have a mass of approximately \(6.645 \times 10^{-27}\) kg.
Compare the masses: Notice that the electron has a significantly smaller mass compared to protons, neutrons, and alpha particles.
Consider the charge: While the charge is not directly related to mass, it is useful to know that electrons have a negative charge, protons have a positive charge, neutrons are neutral, and alpha particles have a positive charge due to their protons.
Conclude based on mass comparison: Since the electron has the smallest mass among the listed subatomic particles, it is the correct answer to the question.
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