Which of the following statements about the particles in a material is true?

• A. Protons and neutrons have opposite electric charges.
• B. Neutrons have a positive charge.
• C. Atoms are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons.
• D. Electrons are found in the nucleus of an atom.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Review the basic structure of an atom: Atoms consist of three main subatomic particles—protons, neutrons, and electrons.
2. Recall the charges of these particles: Protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge (they are neutral), and electrons have a negative charge.
3. Understand the location of these particles within the atom: Protons and neutrons are located in the nucleus, while electrons orbit the nucleus in electron clouds or shells.
4. Evaluate each statement based on this knowledge: For example, protons and neutrons do not have opposite charges because neutrons are neutral; electrons are not found in the nucleus.
5. Conclude that the true statement is the one that correctly describes the composition of atoms as being made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons.