Question

____ and __ are located in the nucleus of the atom, while ____ exist in areas of probability around the nucleus.
○a. protons; neutrons; electrons
○b. protons; electrons; neutrons
○c. neutrons; electrons; protons
○d. orbitals; electrons; protons

Explanation:

Atoms are composed of a nucleus and an electron cloud. The nucleus contains protons (positively - charged) and neutrons (neutral). Electrons (negatively - charged) are found in regions of probability (electron cloud) around the nucleus.

• Option A: Protons and neutrons are in the nucleus, electrons are in the electron cloud (areas of probability around the nucleus). This is correct.
• Option B: Electrons are not in the nucleus.
• Option C: Electrons are not in the nucleus and protons are in the nucleus (not in the electron cloud).
• Option D: Orbitals are regions where electrons are likely to be found (not in the nucleus), and protons are in the nucleus (not in the electron cloud).

Answer:

A. Protons; neutrons; electrons