AQA GCSE · Question 01.2 · Atomic structure and the periodic table
Which particles have the same relative mass?
Answer options:
A.
An electron and a neutron
B.
An electron and a proton
C.
A neutron and a proton
How to approach this question
Recall the relative masses of the three subatomic particles. Protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus and have a similar mass. Electrons orbit the nucleus and are much lighter.
Full Answer
C.A neutron and a proton✓ Correct
A neutron and a proton
The relative masses of the subatomic particles are: Proton = 1, Neutron = 1, Electron ≈ 1/1840 (or very small). Therefore, protons and neutrons have the same relative mass.
Common mistakes
✗ Thinking electrons have a similar mass to protons or neutrons.
Expert