Question
Question 12 Which phrase describes an aluminum atom? a positively charged nucleus surrounded by negatively charged electrons. a positively charged nucleus surrounded by positively charged electrons a negatively charged nucleus surrounded by negatively charged electrons a negatively charged nucleus surrounded by positively charged electrons 1 pts
Answer
4.2
(235 Votes)
Odette
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
The phrase that describes an aluminium atom is 'a positively charged nucleus, surrounded by negatively charged electrons'.
Explanation
## Step 1The structure of an atom is composed of a nucleus in the core, which contains protons and neutrons. Surrounding the nucleus, there is an electron cloud where the electrons move around.## Step 2The nucleus is usually positively charged because of the protons. Electrons, on the other hand, are negatively charged. The attraction of the electrons towards the positively charged nucleus keeps them in orbit.## Step 3For an aluminium atom specifically, it has 13 protons (and hence a positive charge) in its nucleus and 13 electrons (with negative charge) surrounding the nucleus. This creates a balance in the overall charge of the atom, making it neutral.