Chapter 4, Problem 46A

Which particles account for most of an atom’s mass?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Particle that account for most of an atom’s mass should be determined.

Concept introduction:

The smallest particle of an element that can neither be created nor be destroyed is known as an atom. It consists of three particles: electrons, protons and neutrons.

Answer to Problem 46A

Neutrons and protons are responsible for most of an atom’s mass.

Explanation of Solution

Mass is the most basic property of matter. It is a measure of the amount of matter present in body. Its SI unit is Kilogram.

Electron cloud: Electron is a negatively charged subatomic particle that surrounds the nucleus in clusters. An electron is $9.10\times {10}^{-31}kg$ in mass.

Protons: Protons are positively charged subatomic particle present inside the nucleus. A proton is $1.67\times {10}^{-27}kg$ in mass.

Neutrons: Neutrons are zero charged subatomic particles present inside the nucleus along with protons. A neutron is also $1.67\times {10}^{-27}kg$ in mass.

Thus, most of an atom’s mass is accounted by the nucleus as the mass of protons and neutrons is greater than electron and they also reside inside the nucleus.

Conclusion

Hence, nucleus accounts for most an atom’s mass as neutrons and protons reside in it.