Which of the following correctly describes a property of an atom?

• A. An atom's electrons are found only inside the nucleus.
• B. An atom consists of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons.
• C. An atom is composed solely of protons.
• D. An atom is always electrically charged.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic structure of an atom: it consists of a nucleus and electrons surrounding it.
2. Recall that the nucleus contains protons and neutrons, which are the heavy particles at the center of the atom.
3. Recognize that electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus in regions called electron clouds or shells, not inside the nucleus.
4. Note that an atom is electrically neutral overall because the number of protons (positive charge) equals the number of electrons (negative charge) in a neutral atom.
5. Evaluate each statement based on this knowledge to identify the correct description of an atom's properties.