The Electrons of an Atom Are

Question

The electrons of an atom are
A)always equal in number to the number of neutrons in an atom.
B)found in the nucleus.
C)used to determine atomic number.
D)positively charged.
E)moving in pathways called orbitals.

Accepted Answer

Electrons are negatively charged subatomic particles that move in pathways called orbitals around the nucleus of an atom. The number of orbitals and their arrangement determines many of an atom's chemical properties. A and B are incorrect because neutrons and electrons are two different types of subatomic particles that have different locations and properties. C is incorrect because while the number of electrons in an atom does determine its atomic number, this is not the primary or exclusive use of electrons in an atom. D is incorrect because electrons are actually negatively charged.