Biology
Biology
10th Edition
ISBN: 9780073383071
Author: Raven
Publisher: MCGRAW-HILL HIGHER EDUCATION
bartleby

Concept explainers

bartleby

Videos

Textbook Question
Book Icon
Chapter 2, Problem 1U

The property that distinguishes an atom of one element (carbon. for example) from an atom of another element (oxygen, for example) is

a. the number of electrons.

b. the number of protons.

c. the number of neutrons.

d. the combined number of protons and neutrons.

Expert Solution & Answer
Check Mark
Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Matter is any substance found in universe which has mass and occupies space. All matter is composed of atoms, which are small particles that are difficult to study because of their size.

Answer to Problem 1U

Correct answer:

The property that distinguishes an atom of one element (carbon, for example) from an atom of another element (oxygen, for example) is the number of protons. Therefore, option b. is correct.

Explanation of Solution

Reason for the correct statement:

The number of protons determines the atomic number of an element.

Option b. is given as “the number of protons”

As different elements are determined by the proton numbers, which is the atomic number,  option b is the right answer.

Hence, option b. is correct.

Reasons for the incorrect statements:

Option a. is given as “the number of electrons.”

The number of electron determines the chemical behavior of an atom. So, it is a wrong answer.

Option c. is given as “the number of neutrons.”

The difference in neutron number determines the isotopes. So, it is a wrong answer.

Option d. is given as “the combined number of protons and neutrons.”

The combined number of neutrons and protons determines the atomic mass of an atom. So, it is a wrong answer.

Hence, options a, c, and d are incorrect.

Conclusion

The number of protons distinguishes an atom of one element from an atom of another element.

Want to see more full solutions like this?

Subscribe now to access step-by-step solutions to millions of textbook problems written by subject matter experts!
Students have asked these similar questions
The atomic number gives thea. number of neutrons in the nucleus.b. number of protons in the nucleus.c. weight of the atom.d. number of protons in the valence shell.
What is an alloy? A. A compound of two metals B. An element of two metals C. A mixture of two metals D. A molecule of two metals
Iodine has 37 known isotopes.  Therefore, the atomic mass has a range of 108-144 amu. Which of the following statements concerning iodine is correct? A) The isotopes of iodine have between 55 and 91 protons. B) An atom of iodine can have between 55 and 91 neutrons. C) The isotopes of iodine will always have the same number of neutrons, but the protons can vary. D) The isotopes of iodine have between 108 and 144 neutrons, but the number of protons will not vary.
Knowledge Booster
Background pattern image
Biology
Learn more about
Need a deep-dive on the concept behind this application? Look no further. Learn more about this topic, biology and related others by exploring similar questions and additional content below.
Similar questions
SEE MORE QUESTIONS
Recommended textbooks for you
Text book image
Concepts of Biology
Biology
ISBN:9781938168116
Author:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James Wise
Publisher:OpenStax College
Text book image
Body Structures & Functions Updated
Biology
ISBN:9780357191606
Author:Scott
Publisher:Cengage
Text book image
BIOLOGY:CONCEPTS+APPL.(LOOSELEAF)
Biology
ISBN:9781305967359
Author:STARR
Publisher:CENGAGE L
Text book image
Human Biology (MindTap Course List)
Biology
ISBN:9781305112100
Author:Cecie Starr, Beverly McMillan
Publisher:Cengage Learning
Text book image
Principles Of Radiographic Imaging: An Art And A ...
Health & Nutrition
ISBN:9781337711067
Author:Richard R. Carlton, Arlene M. Adler, Vesna Balac
Publisher:Cengage Learning
Chemistry and the Molecules of Life; Author: Gerry Bergtrom;https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udvppplTq1w;License: Standard YouTube License, CC-BY