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

• A. 9.109 × 10^{-31} kg
• B. 1.675 × 10^{-27} kg
• C. 1.007 × 10^{-24} kg
• D. 1.673 × 10^{-27} kg

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the problem asks for the precise mass of a neutron, which is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom.
2. Recall that the mass of a neutron is typically expressed in kilograms and is on the order of 10^{-27} kg, much heavier than an electron but similar to a proton.
3. Compare the given options by their order of magnitude to identify which values are close to the expected neutron mass (~1.675 × 10^{-27} kg).
4. Eliminate options that are significantly smaller or larger than the known neutron mass, such as 9.109 × 10^{-31} kg (electron mass scale) and 1.007 × 10^{-24} kg (too large).
5. Select the value closest to the accepted neutron mass, which is approximately 1.675 × 10^{-27} kg, based on standard physical constants.