Which three subatomic particles with specific charges are the primary components of atoms?

• A. Protons, positrons, and electrons
• B. Electrons, neutrons, and alpha particles
• C. Protons, neutrons, and electrons
• D. Neutrons, electrons, and photons

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the three main subatomic particles that make up an atom: protons, neutrons, and electrons.
2. Recall the charges associated with each particle: protons have a positive charge, electrons have a negative charge, and neutrons have no charge (neutral).
3. Understand that positrons are not a primary component of atoms; they are the antimatter counterpart of electrons.
4. Recognize that alpha particles are helium nuclei and not components of a single atom's structure.
5. Note that photons are particles of light and do not have mass or charge, so they are not subatomic particles within atoms.