Multiple Choice
How many neutrons are in an atom of carbon-12?
2. Atoms & Elements
Isotopes
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which subatomic particle determines the identity of an element?
A
Proton
B
Neutron
C
Photon
D
Electron
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the identity of an element is determined by its atomic number, which is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.
Recall that protons are positively charged subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom.
Recognize that each element has a unique number of protons, which distinguishes it from other elements. For example, hydrogen has 1 proton, while helium has 2 protons.
Note that neutrons are neutral particles also found in the nucleus, but they do not affect the identity of the element. They can vary in number among isotopes of the same element.
Understand that electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus, and photons are particles of light, neither of which determine the identity of an element.
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