A Level Physics Practice Exam

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Study for the A Level Physics Exam efficiently with engaging quizzes and multiple-choice questions designed to enhance your understanding. Prepare yourself for the challenges of A Level Physics!

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How does the mass of an electron compare to that of a proton?

  1. It has much more mass

  2. It has the same mass

  3. It has much less mass

  4. It has slightly more mass

The correct answer is: It has much less mass

The mass of an electron is much less than that of a proton. Specifically, the mass of a proton is about 1836 times greater than that of an electron. This significant difference is due to the inherent properties of these subatomic particles; protons are baryons, comprising three quarks tightly bound together by the strong nuclear force, whereas electrons are leptons, which are fundamental particles without substructure. This fundamental distinction contributes to the vast difference in mass between the two types of particles. The comparison underscores the electron's role in atomic structure—while they have a negligible mass compared to protons and neutrons, their charge and behavior in electromagnetic fields are crucial to chemical interactions and bonding.

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