Which subatomic particles are found in the nucleus of an atom, while others travel around the nucleus?

• A. Only electrons are found in the nucleus; protons and neutrons travel around the nucleus.
• B. Electrons and protons are found in the nucleus; neutrons travel around the nucleus.
• C. Neutrons and electrons are found in the nucleus; protons travel around the nucleus.
• D. Protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus; electrons travel around the nucleus.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the basic structure of an atom, which consists of a nucleus at the center and electrons surrounding the nucleus in electron clouds or orbitals.
2. Identify the subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge (neutral), and electrons have a negative charge.
3. Understand that the nucleus contains the particles responsible for most of the atom's mass, which are the protons and neutrons.
4. Recognize that electrons are much lighter and are found outside the nucleus, moving around it in defined regions called orbitals.
5. Conclude that the correct statement is: protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus, while electrons travel around the nucleus.