Question

the mass of a proton is about $1.7 \times 10^{-27}$ kg, while the mass of an electron is about $9.1 \times 10^{-31}$ kg. based on this information, which of these statements best describes the relationship between the two masses?\
\
a. the mass of an electron is about 2,000 times larger than that of a proton.\
\
b. the mass of a proton is about 2,000 times larger than that of an electron.\
\
c. the mass of an electron is about 50,000 times larger than that of a proton.\
\
d. the mass of a proton is about 50,000 times larger than that of an electron.

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate proton-electron mass ratio

$$\frac{m_p}{m_e} = \frac{1.7\times10^{-27}}{9.1\times10^{-31}} = \frac{1.7}{9.1}\times10^{4} \approx 0.187\times10^{4} \approx 1870 \approx 2000$$

Step2: Interpret the ratio

The proton mass is ~2000x the electron mass.

Answer:

B. The mass of a proton is about 2,000 times larger than that of an electron.