Which is a characteristic of the nucleus of an atom?

• A. It contains protons and neutrons.
• B. It occupies most of the atom's volume.
• C. It is surrounded by electrons in fixed orbits.
• D. It has a negative charge.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the basic structure of an atom, which consists of a nucleus and electrons surrounding it.
2. Understand that the nucleus is the central part of the atom and contains subatomic particles called protons and neutrons.
3. Remember that protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge (neutral), and electrons have a negative charge.
4. Recognize that the nucleus occupies a very small volume compared to the entire atom, which is mostly empty space where electrons are found.
5. Conclude that the nucleus has a positive charge overall due to the protons, and it contains both protons and neutrons, but not electrons.