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Multiple Choice
Which of the following subatomic particles has the greatest mass?
A
Electron
B
Proton
C
Neutron
D
Positron
Verified step by step guidance
1
Recall the three main subatomic particles: electron, proton, and neutron, and also consider the positron, which is the electron's antiparticle.
Understand that the mass of these particles varies significantly: electrons and positrons have very small masses compared to protons and neutrons.
Know that protons and neutrons have masses close to 1 atomic mass unit (amu), but neutrons are slightly heavier than protons.
Recognize that the electron and positron have masses approximately 1/1836 that of a proton or neutron, making them much lighter.
Conclude that among the given particles, the neutron has the greatest mass because it is slightly heavier than the proton, and both are much heavier than electrons and positrons.