Introduction

Subatomic particles are the building blocks of all matter in the universe. They make up atoms and are responsible for the properties of matter. The three main subatomic particles are electrons, protons, and neutrons. Which subatomic particle is not found in the nucleus? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question in detail.

Electrons

Electrons are negatively charged subatomic particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom. They are found outside the nucleus in the electron cloud. Electrons have a very small mass compared to protons and neutrons.

Protons

Protons are positively charged subatomic particles that are found in the nucleus of an atom. They have a mass of approximately 1 atomic mass unit (amu). The number of protons in an atom determines its atomic number and identifies it as a particular element.

Neutrons

Neutrons are subatomic particles that have no charge and are found in the nucleus of an atom. They have a mass of approximately 1 amu, which is about the same as a proton. The number of neutrons in an atom can vary, and atoms of the same element can have different numbers of neutrons.

Which Subatomic Particle is Not Found in the Nucleus?

The subatomic particle that is not found in the nucleus is the electron. Electrons are found outside the nucleus in the electron cloud. The electron cloud is an area around the nucleus where electrons are most likely to be found.

Electron Cloud

The electron cloud is an area around the nucleus where electrons are most likely to be found. It is sometimes referred to as the electron shell or energy level. The electron cloud is divided into sublevels, which are further divided into orbitals.

Orbitals

Orbitals are regions within an electron cloud where electrons are most likely to be found. Each orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons. The four types of orbitals are s, p, d, and f.

S Orbital

An s orbital is a spherical region within an electron cloud where electrons are most likely to be found. It can hold a maximum of two electrons.

P Orbital

A p orbital is a dumbbell-shaped region within an electron cloud where electrons are most likely to be found. It can hold a maximum of six electrons.

D Orbital

A d orbital is a clover-shaped region within an electron cloud where electrons are most likely to be found. It can hold a maximum of ten electrons.

F Orbital

An f orbital is a complex region within an electron cloud where electrons are most likely to be found. It can hold a maximum of fourteen electrons.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the subatomic particle that is not found in the nucleus is the electron. Electrons are negatively charged subatomic particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom in the electron cloud. The electron cloud is divided into sublevels, which are further divided into orbitals. The four types of orbitals are s, p, d, and f. Each orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons. Understanding subatomic particles is essential in understanding the properties of matter and the universe as a whole.

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