TEAS Test 7 science Related

Review TEAS Test 7 science related questions and content

What does the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom determine?

  • A. Mass number
  • B. Atomic number
  • C. Isotope
  • D. Valence electron count
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom is referred to as the atomic number. This atomic number is crucial as it uniquely identifies an element and determines its position on the periodic table. The mass number, on the other hand, represents the sum of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. Isotopes are variants of elements with the same number of protons but differing numbers of neutrons. Valence electron count pertains to the number of electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom, which influences its chemical behavior.