True or false about atoms (8309)

, por F_y_Q

Decide whether the following statements are true or false. Explain the reason if you find them false:

a) An atom is different from an ion.

b) Atoms have more electrons than protons.

c) Two cations attract each other only if they are in contact.

d) Carbon atoms can be better conductors than potassium atoms.

P.-S.

a) TRUE.

b) FALSE. Atoms are neutral species, unlike ions, so they must have the same number of protons as electrons.

c) FALSE. They do not attract in any case because they are particles with the same charge, so they repel each other instead of attracting.

d) FALSE. Potassium is a metal and therefore has higher electrical conductivity than carbon, which is a non-metal. The allotropic form of carbon called graphite is conductive, but its conductivity is about ten times lower than that of potassium, making it a worse conductor.