Which of the following is a characteristic of the part of the atom labeled "b" if "b" represents the nucleus?

• A. It is the region where electrons are most likely to be found.
• B. It has a negative charge.
• C. It occupies most of the atom's volume.
• D. It contains protons and neutrons.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify what the label "b" represents in the atom; here, "b" is the nucleus.
2. Recall that the nucleus is the central part of the atom containing protons and neutrons.
3. Understand that protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge, and electrons (which are negatively charged) are found outside the nucleus.
4. Recognize that the nucleus occupies a very small volume compared to the entire atom, so it does not occupy most of the atom's volume.
5. Conclude that the correct characteristic of the nucleus is that it contains protons and neutrons.