Question

which of the following is the most accurate sketch of an atom of carbon?
key: p⁺ = protons
n⁰ = neutrons
⊖ = electrons

a: 12 p⁺, 12 n⁰
b: 6 p⁺, 6 n⁰
c: 6 p⁺, 6 n⁰
d: 6 p⁺, 6 n⁰

○ c
○ a
○ d
○ b

Explanation:

Step1: Confirm carbon's proton count

From the periodic table, carbon has an atomic number of 6, so it has $6\ p^+$. This eliminates option A (12 protons).

Step2: Confirm neutral atom electron count

A neutral carbon atom has equal protons and electrons, so $6\ e^-$. This eliminates option B (5 electrons) and D (5 electrons).

Step3: Confirm neutron count

Carbon's mass number is ~12, so neutrons = $12 - 6 = 6\ n^0$, which matches option C.

Step4: Verify electron shell arrangement

Carbon has 2 electrons in the first shell and 4 in the second, which matches option C's structure.

Answer:

C