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Question

Which subatomic particle has a negative charge but negligible mass?

The correct answer is
Electron

Subatomic Particle Properties Explained

Understanding the properties of subatomic particles is fundamental in science. The question requires identifying a particle with specific characteristics: a negative charge and essentially zero or negligible mass.

Let's review the properties of the primary subatomic particles:

  • Protons: Located in the atom's nucleus. They possess a positive charge (+1) and have a significant mass (approximately 1 atomic mass unit, amu).
  • Neutrons: Also located in the nucleus. They have no electrical charge (neutral) and possess a mass very close to that of a proton (approximately 1 amu).
  • Electrons: Orbit the nucleus in specific energy levels. They carry a negative charge (-1). Their mass is extremely small, about 1/1836th of the mass of a proton, making it negligible in many calculations.

A comparison highlights the differences:

Particle Charge Relative Mass
Proton Positive (+1) Significant (≈ 1 amu)
Neutron Neutral (0) Significant (≈ 1 amu)
Electron Negative (-1) Negligible (≈ 1/1836 amu)

Based on these properties, the subatomic particle matching the description of having a negative charge and negligible mass is the electron.

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