Which of the following statements about the nuclear theory of atoms is false?

• A. Most of an atom’s mass and all of its negative charge are contained in a small core called the nucleus.
• B. Most of the volume of an atom is empty space, through which electrons are dispersed.
• C. Atoms are electronically neutral.
• D. All of the above statements are true.
• E. All of the above statements are false.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nuclear theory of atoms: The nuclear theory states that most of an atom's mass is concentrated in a small, dense region called the nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons. Electrons, which have a negative charge, are dispersed in the space surrounding the nucleus.
2. Evaluate the statement: 'Most of an atom's mass and all of its negative charge are contained in a small core called the nucleus.' According to nuclear theory, the nucleus contains most of the atom's mass but not its negative charge. Electrons, which are negatively charged, are outside the nucleus.
3. Consider the statement: 'Most of the volume of an atom is empty space, through which electrons are dispersed.' This is consistent with nuclear theory, as electrons occupy the space around the nucleus, which is mostly empty.
4. Analyze the statement: 'Atoms are electronically neutral.' This is true because the number of protons (positive charge) in the nucleus is equal to the number of electrons (negative charge) surrounding the nucleus, resulting in a neutral overall charge.
5. Review the options: 'All of the above statements are true' and 'All of the above statements are false.' Since one statement is false, the option 'All of the above statements are true' is incorrect, and 'All of the above statements are false' is also incorrect because some statements are true.