Question

Which of the following statements does not describe the structure of an atom?

An atom has a small, dense center called the nucleus.
Inside the nucleus of an atom are protons and electrons.
Protons are positively charged sub-atomic particles.
Electrons are negatively charged sub-atomic particles.

Answer 1

The incorrect statement is that the nucleus of an atom contains protons and electrons; actually, the nucleus contains protons and neutrons, with electrons orbiting around it.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that does not correctly describe the structure of an atom is 'Inside the nucleus of an atom are protons and electrons'. This statement is incorrect because the nucleus of an atom actually contains protons and neutrons, not electrons. Electrons are negatively charged sub-atomic particles that orbit around the nucleus. The nucleus itself is a small, dense center that is positively charged due to the presence of protons, which are positively charged. Neutrons, which have no electric charge, are also found within the nucleus.

Further expanding on atomic structure, the nucleus is very tiny compared to the rest of the atom, which is mostly empty space. The electrons residing in this space are in perpetual motion, creating a cloud-like region around the nucleus. Despite their small mass compared to protons and neutrons, the number of electrons equals the number of protons in a neutral atom, balancing the charge.

Answer 2

The second statement is false. Protons and neutrons are found inside the nucleus, electrons orbit the nucleus.