Which of the following is closest to the mass of a neutron?

• A. 1 amu
• B. 1/200 amu
• C. 2,000 amu
• D. 1/2,000 amu

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the mass of a neutron is typically compared to the atomic mass unit (amu), which is defined as one twelfth the mass of a carbon-12 atom.
2. Recall that the neutron is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom, and its mass is very close to 1 amu, similar to that of a proton.
3. Recognize that 1 amu is approximately equal to the mass of a proton or neutron, about \$1.67 \times 10^{-27}$ kilograms.
4. Compare the given options to this known value: 1 amu, 1/200 amu, 2,000 amu, and 1/2,000 amu, and identify which is closest to the neutron's mass.
5. Conclude that since the neutron's mass is roughly equal to 1 amu, the correct choice is the option closest to 1 amu.